Research Associate Jobs in Austin, MN (NOW HIRING)

The French lab at The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota is looking to recruit a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our multi-disciplinary team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the physical sciences and experience with the biophysical characterization of proteins and protein complexes. Experience with structural biology (cryo-EM or crystallography), chromatography, mass spec-based targeted metabolomics, assay development, lipid biochemistry or immunology would be considered assets. The lab has a number of NIH- and NSF-funded basic and translational research projects including the characterization of higher-order structures of proteins involved in nucleotide metabolism, the discovery and development of immunomodulatory inhibitors as drug leads, target validation and assay development for novel chemotherapeutics, method development for Cryo-EM, and mechanistic studies of signal transduction in photoreceptors. The selected candidate would be expected to be an intellectual leader in one project area and contribute to other research in the lab. A particular focus of this position is expected to be the structure-guided enzymology and drug discovery of proteins, and protein complexes, implicated in human immune signaling pathways. For more information about projects and recent publications, please see the lab webpage at: https://sbufrenchlab.wordpress.com/.
This position provides excellent learning opportunities and access to state-of-the-art resources and facilities, including training and regular access to our in-house electron microscopy suite (Titan Krios 5, Titan Krios G2, Arctis Cryo-Plasma FIB/SEM) for cryo-EM and cryo-ET studies, a triple-quad LC/MS-MS for compound ID and targeted metabolomics, full medicinal chemistry capabilities for the synthesis and evaluation of small molecules, and a suite of advanced technologies for the biophysical characterization of samples including instruments for surface plasmon resonance, grating-coupled interferometry, photometry and multi-angle light scattering, among others. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.
Focus of Job Responsibilities
The candidate would be expected to work on multiple aspects of one or more projects at any one time. This will include, but is not limited to, experimental design, implementation, and data collection as well as the analysis and dissemination of research data. The individual would be expected to work independently but also frequently collaborate with lab members and other scientists. As an integral part of our research team, the candidate would be expected to help us to always maintain a safe and professional work environment, and to actively participate in regular group meetings.
Propose, plan, and conduct laboratory-based experiments - 60%
• In collaboration with the PI and other lab personnel, propose, optimize, and plan experiments that will advance our lab's research objectives.
• Carry out a wide range of wet-lab experiments efficiently and safely.
• Develop competency in the use of advanced technologies relevant to the lab's research objectives.
Process and analyze data - 20%
• Use advanced, specialized software tools to process data collected from laboratory experiments.
• Compile and analyze processed data using a variety of software tools.
Science communications - 5%
• Communicate research findings to different audiences, including the PI and group members, the broader scientific community, and the general public, among others.
• Regularly document progress in lab notebooks and similar formats.
• Assist the PI and other lab personnel in writing text and generating figures to disseminate research findings in posters, presentations, manuscripts, and grant applications.
Laboratory oversight and administration - 5%
• Assist the PI and other lab personnel in maintaining a safe, clean, and productive laboratory environment.
• Assist with laboratory receiving, ordering, and inventory management, as needed.
• Assist with other lab admin responsibilities including, but not limited to, lab cleaning, maintenance of stocks, maintenance of equipment, and laboratory waste management.
Training and development - 5%
• Through interactions with the PI and other lab personnel, workshops, courses, and seminars, develop and/or extend expertise in research techniques applicable to the lab's research objectives.
• Assist with training of new lab personnel and oversight of junior laboratory personnel.
• Participate in professional development opportunities.
Other duties as assigned - 5%
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
• Ph.D., DDS, DVM, JD, MD or equivalent.
• PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics or related field.
• Competency in standard biochemical and biophysical characterization of proteins.
• Strong work ethic and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organization skills as well as competency in written and verbal communication in English.
• The candidate must be able to effectively manage research projects with little oversight from the PI.
Preferred Qualifications
• Strong background and training in biochemistry, chemistry and biophysics.
• Experience should include some or all of the following: experience with the characterization of proteins using cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography or related approaches; extensive use of chromatography, spectroscopy, and related biophysical approaches; experience with mass spectrometry-based characterization of small molecules/metabolites; experience with cell biology or immunology research; training/experience in assay development and/or pharmacology.
• Experience using multiple protein expression platforms, including mammalian, bacterial, insect, and yeast, is strongly preferred.
• Enthusiastic, self-motivated, keen to learn, and able to thrive in a highly collaborative and multi-disciplinary research environment.
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: $62,232-$75,564 ; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

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 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).