"Post-Doctoral Associate"

About the Job

• 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

Qualifications

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

About the Department

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 and Benefits

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

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 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).