Quantitative Research Associate Jobs in Minnesota

- 10% Review literature relating to research projects and assist in writing publications, summary reports, and research grants
- 10% Training and supervising undergraduate and pre-doctoral researchers
- 10% Perform molecular analyses including PCR, quantitative RT-PCR, DNA extraction, molecular cloning of influenza reverse genetics constructs, CRISPR/Cas9, primer design.
- 40% With oversight from PI, design and execute complex, multi-step experiments, trouble-shoot protocols, interpret findings and prepare data for publication in an assigned area to aid in the solution of a research problem.  The primary focus of this project will understanding effects of microbiome on influenza susceptibility in a primary bronchial epithelial-respiratory microbiome co-culture model. An experimental approach will be formulated based on existing knowledge of the field, review of  relevant literature, contacting other researchers in the field and collaboration with other labs.
- 20% Analyze and interpret microbiome and viral infection data from longitudinal observational study
-10% Duties as assigned
Independence and decision making: Solves complex research related work assignments with working knowledge of the field and minimal guidance; likely to act as an informal resource for colleagues with less experience

Required Qualifications:

- Ph.D degree within a biomedical or computational biology field.
- Experience with standard mammalian tissue culture techniques
- Experience with standard molecular biology techniques e.g. PCR, quantitative PCR, DNA extraction
- Experience with publication and presentation of data in multiple forms, including manuscripts and grant submission
- Experience mentoring trainees including undergraduates, medical students, and/or PhD students in the conduct of research
Preferred Qualifications:
- Foundational knowledge of microbiology, virology and human immunology
- Experience with culture of primary cells
- Experience with influenza virus culture and reverse genetics systems
- Experience with flow cytometry
- Experience with use and/or development of data analysis and/or data visualization tools including R and Python
-  Working knowledge of omics analysis pipelines with specific focus on microbiome data
- Strong organizational skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills

This is a research position in a laboratory studying mechanisms by which respiratory viruses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus cause disease in humans. We take an integrative approach incorporating the respiratory microbiota, viruses and host immune system in both model systems and clinical studies.  Our lab seeks to foster an inclusive environment in which members from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to develop their skills of scientific inquiry. A successful candidate will be a curious, self-motivated team player with an interest in mentoring junior scientists.  The position offers the opportunity to interact with physician-scientists and develop skills in a variety of research techniques, experimental approaches and research questions relevant to human health, including primary human cell culture, molecular virology and analysis of microbiome data.  The researcher will be encouraged to present and publish their research.

Pay Range: $61,008- $68,964; depending on education/qualifications/experience 

Time Appointment: 75%-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

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will have 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.  

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu 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.

The University of Minnesota offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave
• Low cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Health care and dependent daycare flexible spending accounts
• Excellent retirement plans with employer match
• Disability and employer paid life insurance
• Wellbeing program with reduced insurance premiums
• Tuition reimbursement opportunities covering 75%-100% of eligible tuition
• Student loan forgiveness opportunity
• Opportunities for growth and promotion
• Employee Assistance Program

For more information regarding benefits: 

https://humanresources.umn.edu/sites/humanresources.umn.edu/files/2018_tcd-fpa-75100-ben-0105-10.pdf