Research Support Manager 1 - Department of Microbiology and Immunology

The Gale Laboratory at University of Minnesota aims to define the molecular mechanisms of innate immune activation and viral regulation of innate immunity, and to define therapeutic targets to inform research and development toward building innate immune therapeutics to combat virus infection. The laboratory studies cell culture, mouse models, nonhuman primate models, and human cohorts of virus infection and immunity. The lab works within specialized resources and administrative framework for performing cellular and animal BSL2, BSL3, BSL4 studies of a range of RNA viruses including flaviviruses, Hanta virus, influenza A viruses, SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses, Ebola virus, chikungunya virus, SIV, and HIV. The lab also conducts functional genomics studies using high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNAseq) including ATCseq, CITEseq, bulk mRNAseq, and GeoMx spatial-seq approaches to define virus/host interactions, host genes of virus control, and therapeutic targets for infection control strategies.

We are seeking a Research Support Manager (RSM1) to provide direct oversight and coordination of complex research operations and provide leadership for staff and faculty across multiple lab groups. The RSM1 leads the day-to-day administration and management of the laboratory and leads the execution of research projects by drafting proposals, selecting methods, supervising the team, managing budgets and presenting findings.

Position Responsibilities:

Research Operations - 50%:
* Design and develop projects, including setting goals, timelines and strategies
* Create guidelines and policies to provide structure to research functions in alignment with the PI's/(Center Director's) strategic vision.
* Oversee operational processes, identifying and implementing process improvement as needed to ensure compliance, efficiency and excellence.
* Assign project resources (people and materials) to maximize project throughput while maintaining high quality results
* Maintain Illumina MSeq and Next Seq 500 sequencers serving as the primary point of contact for all technical issues with machines
* Independently prepare cDNA libraries for high throughput parallel sequencing from a variety of tissues and cell types.
* Perform basic analysis by applying appropriate analytical programs (e.g. demultiplexing) for high throughput RNA sequence results
* Track project expenses and generate project quotes and bills

People Management - 30%
* Responsible for performance management of 6 staff under the guidance of the PI.
* Provide supervision to include regularly scheduled meetings, goal setting, professional development, performance management, hiring, recruiting and training.
* Provide guidance in managing complex research studies to staff, faculty and direct reports
* Mentor and direct staff to maximize resources efficiently

Lab Management -10%
* Oversee maintenance and cleaning of laboratory space
* Oversee laboratory infrastructure including access and electronic systems
* Maintain facility and infrastructure records
* Analyze space usage and reassign space to align with key operational priorities

Grants - 10%
* Partner with PI to prepare grant/sub award budgets and other documents
* Consult with faculty on budget planning and interpret protocols to ensure sufficient resources
* Collaborate closely with pre and post award grant staff, accounts and other relevant groups as applicable

Required Qualifications:
* BS/BA with at least 6 years of research-related work experience OR an advanced degree with at least 4 years of research-related work experience
* Experience working in Academic/Governmental institutions; passion for working in the academic research environment
* Documented experience in laboratory environments and experimental techniques
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced work environment
* Demonstrated organizational and coordination skills with attention to detail
* Ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities and projects
* Excellent communication skills, verbal and written
* Ability to work flexible work hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends and on-call as needed for studies.
* Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Preferred Qualifications:
* Ability to interact with staff, research collaborators (industry and University of Minnesota), and graduate/undergraduate students on a professional level
* Experience with Google Workspace
* Ability to develop and foster a collaborative, engaged, adaptable, and high trust team environment

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology is a community of scholars committed to discovering and disseminating knowledge about the microbial world. Our interests and expertise encompass some of the most exciting areas of contemporary microbiology and immunology, ranging from the physiology and development of microorganisms, the molecular pathogenesis of infections, and fundamental aspects of immunity.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also 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

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

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.

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).