University of Minnesota Hiring for Researcher – Makielski Lab at Minneapolis, MN  Full Time

Position title: Researcher 3 and Lab Manager, Comparative Oncology Lab

Position overview: The Makielski lab at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and Masonic Cancer Center is seeking to hire a research technician and lab manager. The lab is located in the Masonic Cancer Research Building, on the East Bank of the Minneapolis campus. This position will involve designing and conducting complex experiments and analyzing data related to cancer research in animals and humans, with a focus on osteosarcoma and exosome biology, as well as assisting with the management of the laboratory. The position involves a balance of research activities (75-80%) and laboratory management duties (20-25%).

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge cancer research, with a focus on canine and human osteosarcoma and exosome biology, in a dynamic and
collaborative laboratory environment. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to make significant contributions to the field of comparative oncology research and develop valuable skills in laboratory management, scientific communication, teamwork, experimental methods, and data analysis.

Key responsibilities:
* Lab management (20-25%):
o Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure that it is in good working condition.
o Manage laboratory inventory, including ordering supplies and maintaining stock.
o Maintain laboratory safety records and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
o Develop and maintain standard operating procedures.
o Train new personnel on laboratory techniques, procedures, and instrumentation.

* Research activities (75-80%):
o Design and conduct complex laboratory experiments related to human and canine osteosarcoma.
o Perform cell culture and maintain cell lines used in experiments.
o Design complex experiments, including those utilizing animal models.
o Assist with animal handling, including administration of drugs and other treatments.
o Transportation of samples between the veterinary school and the lab for processing.
o Process blood and tissue samples.
o Have some degree of schedule flexibility to process occasional samples after hours.
o Enrich exosomes from samples and perform exosome characterization (including flow cytometry, nanoparticle tracking analysis, electron microscopy, and immunoblot).
o Perform DNA and RNA extraction from blood and tissue samples.
o Prepare and submit samples for next-generation sequencing.
o Perform protein extraction from exosome preparations.
o Attend laboratory meetings and present research findings.
o Collect, organize, and analyze data from laboratory experiments.
o Keep accurate and detailed records of all laboratory activities.
o Collaborate with other researchers and laboratory staff to achieve research goals, including contributing to the planning and design of experiments.

o Communicate regularly with team members to share data, troubleshoot experiments, and coordinate tasks.
o Help with the preparation of scientific papers, presentations and posters.

Salary and Benefits: The salary and the position will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. The university offers a comprehensive benefits package.

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Qualifications:
* Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in a science-related field with at least 2 years of experience,
or a combination of education and work experience to equal 6 years.
* Master’s degree preferred.
* Laboratory experience is required.
* Experience handling laboratory animals, especially mice, is required.
* Strong organizational and communication skills.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
* Ability to design and conduct complex, multi-step, laboratory experiments.
* Attention to detail and the ability to accurately record and analyze data.
* Ability to work in a dynamic team environment, collaborating effectively with other
members of the laboratory.

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 Scholarship
• 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 [email protected] or call (612) 624-UOHR (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).