Rsch Pro 1-Biomed Research

This position is housed within a research group investigating the molecular epidemiology, viral ecology, and host-pathogen interactions of respiratory viruses including RSV, human metapneumovirus, and parainfluenza viruses. The lab integrates molecular virology, microbial ecology, and mucosal immunology with genomic and multi-omics sequencing approaches.

The Researcher 1 will join a collaborative team that works closely with physician-scientists and bioinformaticians. The lab manager, Bart Theelen, provides hands-on oversight of molecular and sequencing workflows. After consultation with the PI on project scope, the successful candidate will carry out experiments using established protocols and ensure accurate, reproducible documentation.

This role is ideal for an early-career scientist with strong foundational training in molecular techniques, BSL-2 laboratory practices, and high-throughput workflow support. The position also offers opportunities to assist trainees, contribute to method development, and expand competencies in sequencing, microbial analysis, and virology.

The lab fosters an inclusive environment that values curiosity, precision, and continuous growth. Flexible work hours may be arranged in advance with the PI and supervisor.

Responsibilities:

Structured Laboratory Work (50%)

• Perform DNA/RNA extractions, library preparation, PCR-based assays, and other molecular workflows.
• Apply aseptic technique and BSL-2 safety practices consistently.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory notebooks and workflow documentation.

Data Management and Documentation (25%)

• Organize and maintain experimental data in reproducible, well-structured formats.
• Support compliance, sample tracking, and quality-control documentation.
• Summarize experimental findings for internal reporting.

Collaborative Research Support (15%)

• Work closely with the lab manager, PI, and team members to implement experiments and analyze preliminary results.
• Assist trainees with sample handling, molecular workflows, or documentation practices as appropriate.
• Contribute to lab meetings, protocol discussions, and troubleshooting.

Professional Development and Other Duties (10%)

• Learn and apply sequencing and multi-omics techniques with supervision.
• Support lab organization and operations (inventory, ordering, compliance, freezer maintenance).
• Engage in manuscript and grant preparation activities when opportunities arise.

Essential Employees

The successful candidate will be designated as an Essential Employee. Essential Employees are expected to report to campus during a University State of Emergency (reduced operations or campus closure) unless specifically directed by the Department not to report or if directed by civil emergency or medical authorities not to report for health and safety reasons. As an Essential Employee, you must report to campus even if the closure is less than 3 days.

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a biomedical science field (e.g., Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Animal Science), or an equivalent combination of education and hands-on laboratory experience totaling at least four years.
• Demonstrated ability to follow structured protocols and maintain meticulous experimental documentation.
• Demonstrated experience with PCR, DNA extraction, and other core molecular biology techniques.
• Familiarity with BSL-2 laboratory safety practices, aseptic technique, and sample handling.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to function as part of a collaborative team.
• Curiosity, self-motivation, and adaptability in a dynamic research environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with next-generation sequencing (especially nucleic acid prep for Oxford Nanopore).
• Experience with tissue processing and/or mammalian cell culture.
• Familiarity with microbial phylogeny or interest in developing such skills.
• Exposure to data analysis, report writing, or data organization using R or Python.
• Experience troubleshooting protocols or improving workflow efficiency-aligned with the candidate's freezer reorganization and protocol refinement experience.
• Knowledge of risk-mitigation strategies for handling human specimens in a BSL-2 setting.
• Prior experience with human subjects research training (CITI, HIPAA) or willingness to complete required modules.

Pay Range: $22.00 - $24.00/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service

Work Location: In-Person

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

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.

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).

The University of Minnesota Medical School

Committed to innovation and diversity, the Medical School educates physicians, scientists, and health professionals; generates knowledge and treatments; and cares for patients and communities with compassion and respect. We value excellence, inclusiveness, collaboration, and discovery.
The mission of the regional campus located in Duluth is to be a national leader in improving healthcare access and outcomes in rural Minnesota and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities. In partnership with CentraCare, the regional campus in St. Cloud offers a wide range of patient experiences throughout students' education in Greater Minnesota and prepares them to become exceptional clinicians and leaders for rural and immigrant populations.

Founded in 1888, the University of Minnesota Medical School has three campuses. A four-year MD program and the MD/PhD program are located on the Twin Cities campus in addition to MD programs at regional campuses in Duluth and St. Cloud.