Required Qualifications
Master’s degree and two years of related experiences or BS/BA degree and four years of related experiences Demonstrated record of productivity Excellent communication skills Ability to work independently and in small groups Strong work ethic
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related field Experience with research using animals, epigenetic techniques, and other molecular biology techniques, preferably evaluating the repair of DNA damage
We are currently seeking a research technician, with experience in epigenetics and testing therapy efficacy in animals, to work in a vibrant, multi-disciplinary environment. Our well-funded research group has numerous ongoing projects in brain tumor research focusing on the discovery and characterization of the novel targets for therapy, all with a goal of developing new treatments for brain tumors, especially glioblastoma. Our team works in collaboration with other faculties within and outside the institution. We regularly employ a wide range of tools and techniques, including shRNA and CRISPR/Cas9 libraries for genome wide screening, transcriptomics, epigenomics, epigenetic editing, microscopy, flow cytometry, biochemical and pharmacologic therapy testing in patient derived xenografts (PDX) models, and other discovery tools.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
We are recruiting an independent, self-motivated individual to continue and expand the ongoing work in our lab focused on the discovery of molecular targets for glioblastoma therapy. The successful candidate will identify, validate, and analyze data from the in vitro and in vivo experiments, with a particular focus on DNA damage and other survival pathways. In addition, the candidate will be responsible for conducting supporting and complementary experiments that may include cell culture, design and implementation of novel assays, protein purification, and other related analytical or biochemical analyses. Because of the breadth of expertise and experience in the lab, there will be opportunities for the new team member to expand their skill set and receive training in structural biology (Cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography), drug design/development, cell biology and advanced microscopy, metabolomics, and mass spectrometry.
70% - Within the predetermined research scope and methodology, design and conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and disseminate results in accordance with the research goals of the lab
15% - Lab maintenance and organization, including equipment maintenance and general lab cleanup
10% - Other duties as assigned including, but not limited to, assisting the PI with research-related or administrative tasks and attending and presenting at scientific conferences
5% - Assist with training other lab members in specialized techniques and with the development and implementation of experiments
The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) 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.
This position has been designated as OVPR Work Profile One.
OVPR Work Profile One is expected to work primarily on-site. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, MN. 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.
Additional information about the lab can be found on the Kitange Lab website (https://www.hi.umn.edu/research/cancer-therapy-resistance-and-drug-target-discovery-program), and further information about the Hormel Institute can be found at the HI site (https://www.hi.umn.edu). Interested applicants can reach out to the Principal Investigator (Dr. Gasper J. Kitange: [email protected]), follow the links on the HI careers page, or apply directly through the University of Minnesota Jobs site.
The Hormel Institute is an independent biomedical research department within the University of Minnesota’s Office of the Vice President for Research. Established in 1942, The Hormel Institute is celebrating 80 years of innovative research! Our vision statement driving the research forward is “We inspire discoveries that improve and extend human life.” The Hormel Institute’s biomedical research is primarily focused on cancer research and other chronic diseases. We are in a stage of accelerated growth, after tripling in size in 2008 and again doubling in size in 2016. Since that time, The Institute is further expanding its research focus areas to include Cryo-EM/Structural Biology, Food, Diet and Nutrition, and Bioinformatics and Computational Biology.
Our scientists have private access to the most cutting-edge technologies including a Cryo-Electron Microscope (Titan Krios and Tecnai G2 Spirit Biotwin), FACS Cell Sorter, Confocal Microscopy, Flow Cytometry, Protein Crystallography Robotics and defraction system, and nano-HPLC-AB SCIEX triple TOF 5600 mass spectrometry. Not to mention full usage of a Leica tissue Processor, Embedder and Microtome, real-time PCR instrumentation, 5 racks of Linux GPU supercomputers for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Spectrophotometers, and Western Blot Imagers.
The Hormel Institute is nestled into Austin, MN – a small rural community, excitingly diverse and progressive, with excellent public schools that feature gifted and talented academic programs. The town also boasts a brand-new YMCA recreational facility, Nature Center, bike trails, and a strong local arts community. We are also conveniently located 35 minutes from Rochester, MN and 1.5 hours south of Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area. Our location offers the quiet, small town environment allowing professionals to enjoy their days off as much as their days in the lab. With hundreds of miles of outdoor trails, numerous community events, busy restaurants and shops, and convenient shuttle/bus options to travel into the city, Austin is the perfect mix of comfort and adventure. The Hormel Institute offers a housing partnership with one- and two-bedroom apartments located just steps away from The Institute’s front doors as well as weekly seminars, speakers, and collaborative presentation opportunities. You will also enjoy our complimentary gym and wellness room available to you 24/7.
Alongside our research growth, we are making strides within our equity mission to welcome in BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, women, and members of other historically underrepresented communities into the field of science. The Hormel Institute is collaborative, innovative, and supportive both in the work and personal environment. We hope to welcome you soon where you will contribute to our vision of “inspiring discoveries that improve and extend human life.”
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.
Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to report complete vaccination against COVID-19 or submit documentation requesting a medical or religious exemption on their first day of employment. To learn more, please visit the University's COVID-19 Response webpage.
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.