Laboratory Researcher - Schulze Diabetes Institute

Job Overview

The Schulze Diabetes Institute is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented [position title] to oversee the daily operations of our university laboratory, support the manufacturing of cell therapy products ("biologics"), and assist with research projects for the treatment of Type 1 Diabetes. The Laboratory Researcher position will play a critical role in maintaining a safe and efficient working environment, ensuring compliance with all regulations, and will work closely with faculty, researchers, and students to support the university's academic and research goals. Due to the nature of the work the position will include non-standard work hours, and depending on the amount of necessary activities in each area the percentage of effort in each job duty will vary.

Job Duties

Lab Management (35-45%)

* Responsible for the maintenance, calibration, and repair of laboratory equipment.
* Responsible for maintaining the Quality Management System (Omni-Assistant) including drafting SOPs, Forms, managing lab equipment records, training records, etc.
* Ensures compliance with all safety regulations and protocols, including the proper disposal of hazardous materials.
* Directs training and support to students and researchers on the proper use of laboratory equipment and techniques.
* Purchases supplies and services for lab personnel as requested.
* Provides support for staff onboarding/off-boarding.

Cell Therapy Manufacturing (CTM) (25-35%)

* Assists with cell therapy manufacturing and quality assessments of pancreatic islets and other cell types for clinical and pre-clinical deployment.
* Confirms completion for manufacturing Batch Production Records in preparation for Quality Assurance closeout.
* Ensures facility readiness by assisting with cleaning, environmental monitoring etc.
* Maintains accurate records of laboratory supplies and order new materials as needed to ensure uninterrupted activities.
* Works with SDI Administrative personnel to manage the CTM Core budget, including purchasing supplies and equipment, and monitoring expenditures.
* Coordinates with UMN TP-IAT program including distribution of transplant calendars and development of manufacturing reports.

Research Support (approx. 15-20%)

* Assists in the planning and execution of research projects. Work may include planning the development of novel techniques and protocols to support project goals.
* Works independently to complete experiments in accordance with laboratory protocols.
* Analyze data in support of reports and research applications.

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

* A bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Biology, Chemistry) plus at least 2 years of relevant experience OR a combination of education and work experience to equal at least six years (Preferred: Master's degree with supervisory experience preferred but not essential)
* Regulatory Experience: Working experience in a translational research/pre-clinical (GRP - Good Research Practices) setting and/or an FDA regulated clinical (cGMP - current Good Manufacturing) laboratories preferred.
* Technical Skills: Proficiency in the use of laboratory equipment and instruments.
* Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively train and support students and faculty.
* Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
* Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot issues and develop effective solutions.

Committed to innovation and diversity, the Medical School educates physicians, scientists, and health professionals; generates knowledge and treatments; and cares for patients and communities with compassion and respect. We value excellence, inclusiveness, collaboration, and discovery.

To learn more about the Department of Surgery, please visit https://med.umn.edu/surgery

Pay Range: $20-$24.33 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

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.

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).