Lab Assistant

Overview

The Aslanidi Lab research is focused on bioengineering and the application of Adeno-Associated virus (AAV) vectors for gene therapy and vaccine development. The research addresses several drawbacks in AAV-based gene therapy such as vector efficiency, pre-existing and therapy-activated immunogenicity, scaled-up vector production, and assessment of efficacy in large pre-clinical animal models. The goal of the research is to advance gene therapy treatment for patients with genetic diseases and cancers.

This position will provide laboratory technical research and support laboratory operations. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position as needed.

Laboratory Maintenance & Equipment Support – 50%

• Clean, sanitize, and maintain laboratory bench space and equipment including glassware, aspiration bottles, water baths, and CO2 incubators.
• Manage biohazard waste through proper autoclaving procedures.
• Maintain and replace CO2 tanks and ensure equipment is functioning properly.
• Maintain and refill 70% ethanol spray battles and ethanol burners.
• Ensure laboratory spaces remain organized and compliant with safety and operational standards.

Preparation of Materials & Solutions – 20%

• Prepare buffers, media, and standard laboratory solutions following established protocols.
• Assist with preparation of bacterial agar plates, bacterial growth medium, and other routine materials needed for experiments.
• Maintain consistency and accuracy in preparation processes.

Inventory & Supply Management – 20%

• Monitor inventory levels of lab supplies and materials.
• Place and track supply orders, ensuring timely replenishment.
• Verify receipt and organize storage of incoming materials.
• Maintain inventory of plasmid DNA and viral stocks.

Safety & Compliance Support – 10%

• Follow all applicable laboratory safety procedures and guidelines.
• Support compliance efforts by maintaining clean and properly functioning work spaces.
• Participate in required safety trainings and adhere to institutional protocols.

Flexible Work Profile

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorses a “work with flexibility” approach. Work location options include fully remote, partially remote, or on-site, based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions. Because this is a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will generally expect employees to live in Minnesota.

This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile One. Flexible Work Profile One, Office/Lab-Based, is expected to work primarily on-site in the office/lab with occasional remote work. The office is located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota. Management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangements as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• High school graduation or the equivalent with some science coursework and laboratory experience.
• Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions in English.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Excel, Word, and related software.

Physical & Environmental Requirements:

• Ability to lift/push and pull up to 50 pounds with or without accommodation.
• Ability to climb a step ladder without accommodation.

Founded in 1942 by Jay

C. Hormel and The Hormel Foundation, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, makes scientific advancements that enhance wellbeing and extend human life. For more than 80 years, we have pursued our mission to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences with applications in medicine and agriculture. A part of the University of Minnesota's Research and Innovation Office, The Hormel Institute partners with leading biomedical research facilities, including Mayo Clinic.

Pay Range: $16.00/hour ; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button…