About the Job
Summary
The Schmidt Research Group at the University of Minnesota (Twin Cities) is seeking a motivated Life Science Research Professional with aspirations to become a project manager and supervisor.
Our research group engineers next-generation AAV gene therapy vectors, developing programmable nanobody-AAV composites for precision cell-type targeting, multi-trait deep mutational scanning to map capsid function, and novel protein delivery systems using AAV as a therapeutic packaging vehicle. We are seeking research professionals with expertise and interest in viral vector engineering, advanced cell culture and biomanufacturing, and clinical translation of gene therapy.
We are well-funded by NIH, NSF, and industry grants, offer opportunities for growth, and personalized mentoring plan tailored to your career goals.
Learn more at schmidt-lab.org
Position Responsibilities
Research & Experimentation: (70%)
* Design and execute AAV vector production, purification, and quality control workflows
* Develop and optimize advanced mammalian cell culture systems for viral vector manufacturing
* Perform functional characterization of engineered AAV capsid variants, including tropism, transduction efficiency, and payload delivery
Translation & Compliance: (20%)
* Support scale-up of AAV biomanufacturing processes toward preclinical and clinical-grade production
* Maintain compliance with biosafety protocols and relevant regulatory standards for gene therapy vectors
* Contribute to documentation supporting IND-enabling studies and GMP transition Collaboration &
Communication: (10%)
* Work closely with academic and industry partners (including biotech collaborators) to advance translational milestones
* Present research findings at lab meetings and scientific conferences
* Contribute to manuscript preparation, grant applications, and technical reports
Qualifications
All required qualifications must be documented in application materials
Required Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, virology, or a related field plus at least five (5) years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and hands-on industry experience to equal at least nine (9) years.
* Hands-on experience with AAV or other viral vector production, including transfection-based manufacturing, iodixanol or affinity-based purification, and titer quantification (ddPCR, qPCR, ELISA)
* Proficiency in standard molecular biology techniques (cloning, Gibson assembly, site-directed mutagenesis, gel electrophoresis, Western blot)
* Experience with mammalian cell culture, including HEK293 or suspension cell systems * Familiarity with biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory practices and regulatory compliance
Preferred Qualifications - education, experience, skills
* Master's or Ph.D. in molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, virology, or a related field.
* Experience with capsid engineering, directed evolution, or deep mutational scanning approaches
* Background in nanobody or antibody engineering and validation
* Exposure to GMP or cGMP manufacturing environments, or experience supporting IND-enabling or preclinical studies
* Familiarity with gene therapy regulatory frameworks (FDA, EMA)
* Experience with flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, or in vivo rodent models for vector characterization
* Proficiency in data analysis tools (Python, R, or similar) for processing high-throughput sequencing or variant library data Professional Attributes
* Strong record of scientific rigor, attention to detail, and reproducibility
* Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, collaborative research environment
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience contributing to publications or technical reports
* Enthusiasm for translational science and bridging academic discovery with clinical application
About the Department
The Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development comprises faculty from both the Medical School and the College of Biological Sciences. Faculty members are engaged in research in three key disciplines of the department—genetics, cell biology and developmental biology.
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range : $32.70 - $38.47; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
Position Type : Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented 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