Researcher - Biomedical Research

About the Job

The Skinner laboratory is developing immunotherapy to cure HIV infections. We are engineering immune cells that recognize and kill HIV producing cells that localize to the specific tissue locations where HIV replication is concentrated. We are also working to develop an improved model to evaluate HIV and other therapeutics.

We are looking for a self-motivated individual with an interest in translational research, a passion for science, and passion to help us work toward the goal of developing a cure for HIV.

The person hired will be trained and will be expected to carry out complex experiments with supervision, maintain records, analyze data, and present findings at lab meetings.

• The work is in person only.
• Work will occur in 3‑133 MRF, 2‑126 MRF, and the mouse RAR facility in CCRB.

• The typical schedule is expected to be 8:30 am‑5 pm, Monday‑Friday.
• Occasional weekend or study needs outside of normal business hours.
• Overtime is not expected.

• Non‑Essential Employee

• This position is not eligible for H‑1B sponsorship.

20‑50% – Conduct experiments, analyze results and keep appropriate records:

• Prepare for and execute experiments with guidance from their supervisor.
• Techniques may include:
  • Primary cell transduction
  • Flow cytometry
  • RT PCR
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • RNAscope
  • Microscopy and image analysis
  • Western blotting
• Follow existing laboratory protocols.
• Maintain a laboratory notebook.
• Analyze data from experiments and present in an appropriate format.

20‑50% – Support of pre‑clinical mouse studies:

• Maintain records.
• Prepare anti‑retroviral drugs.
• Assist with infection and immunotherapy administration.
• Assist with blood draws.
• Assist with necropsies.
• General care of the mice after infection (cage changes, feeding, monitoring).
• Assist with handling and assessment of study samples.

20% – Maintenance and production of stocks and reagents for the laboratory:

• Prepare laboratory stocks:
  • Plasmid preparations
  • Virus preparations
  • DNA and RNA isolation
  • Isolation of primary immune cells
• Document and QC the stocks.
• Maintain a database of laboratory produced reagents.

10% – Lab maintenance:

• Ordering lab supplies.
• Preparation of lab solutions.
• Dishwashing and autoclave preparation.
• Maintenance of equipment.

• A BA/BS or a combination of education and related experience to equal 4 years.
• An ability to work with animals, tissues and/or cells which are infected with HIV.

• Previous work with animals, especially mice.
• Previous work in a laboratory with demonstrated ability to be productive, conduct experiments, maintain records.
• Ideally, previous lab work or coursework would include infectious disease, cell culture, microscopy, molecular biology and/or immunology.
• Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team.

• Pay Range: $22.10–$24.04/hr, depending on education/qualifications/experience.
• Time Appointment: 100% Appointment.
• Position Type: Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor Represented Staff.
• University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive wages, paid holidays, generous time off, continuous learning opportunities, low‑cost medical, dental, pharmacy plans, healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts, University HSA contributions, disability and employer‑paid life insurance, employee well‑being program, excellent retirement plans with employer contribution, Public Service Loan Forgiveness opportunity, financial counseling services, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates.

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 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.