Temporary Research Assistant - Department of Microbiology and Immunology

Summary of Position:
The candidate will join a research team studying genome plasticity and drug resistance in fungal pathogens. We use comprehensive genomic techniques, including Illumina and MinION whole genome sequencing, qPCR, and CRISPR engineering. This candidate will help enable our ongoing research by performing various molecular experiments, perform laboratory maintenance, help with ordering, and support of a safe and secure workplace.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Typical tasks (These examples do not include all possible tasks in this work and do not limit the assignment of related tasks.)

50% Research and data analysis: Individual will conduct complex, multi-step laboratory procedures based on written protocols or oral instruction from PI or other senior researchers, using molecular biological, microbiological, or genetic techniques. Individual will be expected to select and adapt methods to meet specific research needs and to assist in development of new laboratory techniques. Previous experience working in a molecular biology laboratory is recommended.

Individual must be able to learn and employ a wide variety of experimental techniques including but not limited to flow cytometry, DNA and RNA extractions, PCR, gel electrophoresis, tissue culture, transformation, Southern, and Western blot analyses.

Individual is expected to maintain a detailed notebook, tabulate and graph data, and interpret results on all procedures.

Individual will be expected to read relevant scientific literature as suggested by the investigation and to identify relevant facts, techniques, and procedures from the primary literature.

50% Laboratory Maintenance: Individual will be involved in the preparation and sterilization of all medium, cleaning and sterilizing of dishes, running the autoclaves, organizing the laboratory, developing and implementing protocols, ensuring lab safety, performing inventory and help with ordering.

Individual will work with other laboratory personnel to coordinate work schedules for execution of complex laboratory studies.

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree in a biology-related field (Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology,
  Biochemistry, etc.)
• Prior research experience in molecular biology or microbiology.
• Prior experience with lab organization and coordination.
• Ability to be part of a team as well as ability to work independently and follow established protocols with attention to detail.
• Ability to record, analyze, and troubleshoot problems independently.
• Strong organizational skills
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Curiosity and desire to learn new skills
• Prior research experience with flow cytometry

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.

Pay Range: 15.25 to $18.00 an hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

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).