Bioinformatics Research Assistant Jobs in Minnesota

The Masonic Cancer Center is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join Dr. Scott Dehm's laboratory. This position is focused on defining mRNA polyadenylation mechanisms as regulatory nodes and therapeutic targets in advanced prostate cancer.  The Postdoctoral Associate will lead research evaluating alterations in mRNA polyadenylation that underlie prostate cancer progression, define key regulatory mechanisms, and test therapeutic antisense morpholino oligonucleotide strategies to block specific mRNA polyadenylation events. Methodologies utilized in this project include mRNA poly(A) stie mapping, short- and long-read RNA sequencing, targeted mass spectrometry, cellular growth/metabolic assays, and testing therapeutic efficacy in cell lines and patient-derived xenografts (PDX). 

This position is based on campus. Per UMN policy, work may be done remotely when appropriate and approved by your manager. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Function 1 (40%)

• Conduct research investigating mRNA polyadenylation mechanisms in prostate cancer, designing and testing poly(A)-blocking antisense morpholino oligonucleotides (PMOs) in vitro and in vivo using prostate cancer cell lines and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models.

Function 2 (25%)

• Perform molecular and proteogenomic experimental procedures, including RNA isolation, mRNA polyadenylation site mapping, long- and short-read RNA sequencing, RT-PCR, Western blotting, targeted mass spectrometry, and glycolytic rate assays (ECAR/GlycoPER).

Function 3 (15%)

• Analyze, interpret, and integrate transcriptomic, poly(A) mapping, and proteomic datasets using bioinformatic and statistical tools in collaboration with Dehm Lab bioinformatics specialists

Function 4 (10%)

• Prepare high-quality scientific manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals, present research findings at departmental seminars and scientific conferences, and assist with writing grant progress reports.

Function 5 (10%)

• Assist with laboratory management, mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees, maintain experimental protocols, and ensure compliance with safety and institutional guidelines..

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials. 

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or a related biomedical science field.

• Extensive hands-on experience in standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., RNA/DNA isolation, RT-PCR, Western blotting, cell culture, gene knock-down via siRNA/shRNA).

• Demonstrated research productivity evidenced by first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in prostate cancer research, androgen receptor (AR) signaling, or RNA biology (mRNA splicing, polyadenylation, or antisense oligonucleotides).

• Experience with next-generation sequencing libraries/analysis (RNA-seq, poly(A) stie mapping, long-read PacBio or Oxford Nanopore sequencing) or targeted mass spectrometry.

• Experience with animal models, including tumor xenografts or patient-derived xenografts (PDX).

• Strong computational or bioinformatic skills for analyzing transcriptomic or proteomic datasets.

The Masonic Cancer Center (MCC) is an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center dedicated to cancer research, education, and patient care for the citizens of Minnesota and the surrounding region. Since the time of the first award in 1997, there has been consistent growth of the membership and research base, enabling our center to further advance our knowledge and enhance care for our catchment area.  We are driven to be the choice academic healthcare environment for patients, clinicians, scientists and students who seek exceptional, compassionate, precision cancer therapy; innovative clinical trials and prevention programs; cutting-edge research opportunities; and outstanding advanced education. 

Pay Range: $63,480 - $77,076; depending on education/qualifications/experience 

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A 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

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

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.

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