Innovation Lab Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Aslanidi Lab research is focused on bioengineering and the application of Adeno-Associated virus (AAV) vectors for the purpose of gene therapy and vaccine development. The research addresses several important drawbacks in AAV-based gene therapy such as vector efficiency, pre-existing and therapy-activated immunogenicity, scaled-up vector production, and assessment of efficacy in large pre-clinical animal models. The goal of our research is to ensure advancement of gene therapy treatment for patients with genetic diseases and cancers. This position will provide laboratory technical research and support laboratory operations. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position as needed.
Responsibilities:
Laboratory Maintenance & Equipment Support - 50%
• Clean, sanitize, and maintain laboratory bench space and equipment including glassware, aspiration bottles, water baths, and CO₂ incubators.
• Manage biohazard waste through proper autoclaving procedures.
• Maintain and replace CO₂ tanks and ensure equipment is functioning properly.
• Maintain and refill 70% ethanol spray battles, ethanol burners.
• Ensure laboratory spaces remain organized and compliant with safety and operational standards.
Preparation of Materials & Solutions - 20%
• Prepare buffers, media, and standard laboratory solutions following established protocols.
• Assist with preparation of bacterial agar plates, bacterial grow medium and other routine materials needed for experiments.
• Maintain consistency and accuracy in preparation processes.
Inventory & Supply Management - 20%
• Monitor inventory levels of lab supplies and materials.
• Place and track supply orders, ensuring timely replenishment.
• Verify receipt and organize storage of incoming materials.
• Maintain inventory of plasmid DNA and viral stocks.
Safety & Compliance Support - 10%
• Follow all applicable laboratory safety procedures and guidelines.
• Support compliance efforts by maintaining clean and properly functioning workspaces.
• Participate in required safety trainings and adhere to institutional protocols.
Flexible Work Profile
The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorses a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.
This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile One.
Flexible Work Profile One, Office/Lab-Based - is expected to work primarily on-site in the office/lab. Only occasionally and inconsistently working remotely. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota. The Hormel Institute management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

• High school graduation or the equivalent of some science courses and laboratory experience should provide the necessary background for work of this class.
• Ability to understand and follow written and oral instruciton in English.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior laboratory experience.
• Experience with Excell, Word Doc, etc.
• Skill in completing assignements accurately and with attention to detail.

Physical & Environmental Requirements:

• Ability to lift/push and pull up to 50 pounds with or without accomodation.
• Ability to climb step ladder without accommodation.

About the Department
Founded in 1942 by Jay C. Hormel and The Hormel Foundation, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, makes scientific advancements that enhance wellbeing and extend human life. For more than 80 years, we have pursued our mission to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences with applications in medicine and agriculture. A part of the University of Minnesota's Research and Innovation Office, The Hormel Institute partners with the region's leading biomedical research facilities, including Mayo Clinic.
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $16.00/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 .
How To Apply
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.
Diversity
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
Employment Requirements
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.
About University of Minnesota
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 Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.