About the Job
Summary of Position
A position is available in the Center for Metabolomics and Proteomics (CMSP) at the University of Minnesota for an experienced research associate focusing on developing and applying MS-based technologies for metabolomics research studies. The CMSP (https://cmsp.umn.edu) is the main biological MS-based core facility on campus offering complete services in metabolomics and proteomics. This senior staff member will consult closely with users of the facility seeking to profile metabolites and/or other small molecule compounds of interest for their research projects, offering leadership in the use of technologies to achieve user research objectives. In some cases, this staff member will lead development of new instrumental methods and/or sample preparation methods necessary for detection of these molecules using high resolution LC-MS and/or GC-MS. Where appropriate, this staff member will train members of user labs in the preparation of samples and potentially generation of MS data for their projects. This staff member will also work with colleagues in the CMSP who are developing and applying targeted LC-MS methods for quantitative analysis of selected metabolites and small molecules. The research associate will also be expected to participate in CMSP training activities offered to users and assist in overall facility operations.
Anticipated responsibilities include:
60% Prepare and analyze samples using LC-MS or GC-MS instrumentation following standardized and customized protocols for metabolomic/small molecule analysis, and deliver processed results and reports to CMSP users
20% Lead in development, validation and standardization of new sample preparation and LC- MS or GC-MS methods
10% Meet with users of CMSP to design and plan experiments utilizing facility technologies
10% Assist in training, promotion and other activities essential to CMSP operations
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
A Master’s or PhD degree in biochemistry, analytical chemistry or closely related field is required with one or more years of research training. At least 2 years of experience and publication record in biological MS, with hands-on experience in LC-MS and/or GC-MS operation. Demonstrated experience in discovery analysis of a broad range of small molecules and metabolites (e.g., amino acids, sugars, fatty acids, lipids etc) is required, as well as experience using and/or testing contemporary software for analysis of metabolite data.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated experience working with non-MS expert biological researchers and applying technologies to biological studies are preferred, as is the ability to work within a team-based environment. Prior experience working within a core research service facility is a plus, but not required.
About the Department
The department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics is committed to understanding the molecular mechanisms of metabolic diseases and cancer; developing novel strategies in biocatalysis and biotechnology; and advancing knowledge through structural biology and molecular biophysics. We organize ourselves into research divisions with emphasis on Chemical and Structural Biology , Metabolic and Systems Biology , Molecular Biology and Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology . We are housed in new buildings with state-of-the-art research and support facilities.
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $ 84,302 - 90,000 ; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 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