Rsch Pro 3-Genetics/Cell Bio

The Kletzien Lab in the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development at the University of Minnesota is seeking a highly motivated Research Professional 3. Our lab takes an integrative, translative, and multi-omics approach using novel preclinical models, genetic engineering tools, and primary head and neck tissue/tumor samples to uncover and reveal fundamental processes driving age-related disorders and diseases of the head and neck. The successful candidate would lead or assist with experiments to determine the role circulating systemic and metabolic factors in protecting head and neck tissue muscle mass and regenerative function and identify genetic/epigenetic regulators that drive age-related defects in head and neck tissue function that can lead to cancer. In particular, the Research Professional will work together with the PI and other research staff to maintain project-specific transgenic and aging mouse colonies, to perform mouse survival surgeries, tissue collection, flow cytometry, immunostaining and other bioassays, to propagate and differentiate patient-specific human pluripotent stem cells, maintain explant and organoid cultures, and to organize data and collate research results. The professional will also perform a variety of basic and general lab support and clerical tasks, including ordering and stocking of supplies, maintenance of lab specific protocols, maintenance of equipment, and preparation and storage of shared reagents.
Work will be performed under specific direction of the PI, although it is expected that certain research-related and clerical tasks will be performed independently. The professional will also participate in frequent team meetings involving lab members and external collaborators, and, under the direction of the PI and senior research staff, will participate in preparing and presenting research results and summaries, institutionally and nationally. Strong organizational and communication skills (both written and oral) are essential.

Job Specific Responsibilities:

90% Research:

• Independently conduct a variety of routine laboratory protocols that include molecular biology techniques (e.g., molecular cloning, plasmid preps, RNA/DNA preps, and PCR analysis), protein analysis (Western blot, ELISA, FACS), immunofluorescence microscopy, histology
• Develop protocols for and maintain cultures of pluripotent stem cells and differentiated cells (both mouse and human)
• Develop protocols for and maintain explant and organoid cultures (both mouse and human)
• Maintain mouse colony: carry out husbandry, genotype mouse strains, perform tail bleeding and injections for experiments
• Perform, with proficiency, animal experiments that include surgeries and/or tissue harvests
• Independently produce and purify AAVs (adeno-associated viruses)
• Assist with equipment maintenance and ordering of common lab supplies
• Record experimental results and maintain accurate lab records
• Present research results at work-in-progress collaboration meetings with internal and external collaborators, and at institutional and national meetings
• Assist with scientific grant and manuscript writing
  

10% Supervising:

• Mentor and train undergraduates, graduate students, and/or researcher professionals in the lab
  
  

All Required Qualifications Must Be Documented In Application Materials

Required qualifications:

• B.A. or B.S. in Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related field plus at least 4 years of relevant experience OR a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least 8 years
• Biological laboratory research experience (at least 4 years experience)
• Expertise in handling/screening of small animals (mice)
• Expertise in small animal (mice) sugeries
• Expertise in tissue culture of mammalian cells, explant cultures, and/or organoid culture systems
• Expertise in gene editing and/or gene therapy methodologies and their application
• Strong organizational and communication skills (both written and oral) are essential.

Preferred qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of cellular and molecular biology and the ability to apply this knowledge are required
• Strong organizational and communication skills and ability to prioritize responsibilities.

The Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development comprises faculty from both the Medical School and the College of Biological Sciences. Faculty members are engaged in research in three key disciplines of the department-genetics, cell biology and developmental biology.

Pay: $26.95 / $56,065

Time Appointment Category: 75%-100% Appointment (If job description above does not specify appointment or expected weekly hours, assume a 100% appointment.)

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Both Must Be Attached

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).