Rsch Pro -Biochemistry

Lab Information

This position is available in Dr. Fang Li's lab in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota Medical School. The lab’s research focuses on the cell entry mechanisms of viruses with pandemic potential, including coronaviruses, filoviruses, and others, and developing drugs and vaccines to block viral entry. The lab uses structural and biochemical approaches to achieve these goals, without handling the viruses themselves.

Full details available at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Provides research support for projects involving structural studies of viral entry proteins and development of entry inhibitors targeting viral entry proteins. Under the guidance of the PI and senior research staff, assists with experimental work, routine laboratory operations, and administrative/grant support for the laboratory.

• 80% – Research:
  Perform research tasks under direction of the PI or senior staff to investigate the structure and function of viral entry proteins and develop entry inhibitors (nanobodies, small molecules). Tasks include molecular cloning, cell culture, recombinant protein expression, protein purification, and protein biochemistry assays. Maintain accurate experimental records, summarize routine results, and communicate progress or technical issues to the supervisor.
• 10% – Laboratory Support:
  Assist with day‑to‑day laboratory management, including organizing lab space, maintaining supplies and inventory, purchasing support, safety and equipment maintenance, and training undergraduates or technicians.
• 10% – Administrative and Grant Support:
  Assist the PI and senior staff with grant document organization, budget tracking, laboratory record maintenance, and implementation of laboratory process improvements.

• Required:
  
  BA/BS in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or a related field, plus at least two years of related experience, or a combination of related education and work experience equal to at least six years.
• Preferred:
  Experience in molecular cloning, cell culture, protein purification, protein biochemistry assays, recombinant protein expression across mammalian, insect, or bacterial systems, chromatography-based purification, PCR, gel electrophoresis, restriction digestion, bacterial transformation, western blotting, or related molecular biology techniques. Excellent oral and written communication, strong organizational skills, ability to follow protocols, work independently, think critically, and demonstrate enthusiasm, creativity, and motivation to learn.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.