Research Specialist

About the Job

The Research Specialist position in the Reddy Lab supports the research work on the structure determination of biomacromolecules using cryo-EM/cryo-ET and aid in the design of novel viral vectors involving human adenoviruses and other viral nanoparticles. These vaccines can be customized for use against the infectious diseases and cancers. The objectives of the project involve elucidating the 3D-structures and biomolecular function using cryo-EM and cryo-ET and rational vaccine design.

The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

• Maintain bacterial and mammalian cell cultures.
• Express and purify proteins and viruses using bacterial and mammalian expression systems.
• Perform protein purification using FPLC and biochemical characterization.
• Prepare cryo-EM samples and perform specimen screening.
• Collect cryo-EM data using the Titan Krios microscope.
• Design and implement experiments to support structural biology research objectives.

• Process cryo-EM datasets using CryoSPARC and RELION.
• Determine protein and viral structures from cryo-EM data.
• Analyze, interpret, and validate experimental results.
• Review relevant scientific literature to inform experimental design and data interpretation.

• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Assist with grant proposal preparation and supporting documentation.
• Generate figures, tables, and other scientific visualizations for manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications.

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorse a "work with flexibility" approach, offering a welcoming and flexible work environment. Work location options include fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office, with some on‑site work potentially required. The position is eligible for Flexible Work Profile One, Office/Lab‑Based, and is expected to work primarily on‑site in the office/lab with occasional remote work.

The office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required. Advanced degree may be preferred or required. Experience with specific research techniques or areas of knowledge within a field may be preferred or required.
• Experience in protein expression, purification and characterization.
• Experience in cryo-EM and/or cryo-ET data‑collection and processing.
• Experience with scientific writing and reporting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree.

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. The Hormel Institute partners with the region's leading biomedical research facilities, including Mayo Clinic.

Pay Range: $63,480–$77,076; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, click the Apply button and follow the instructions. Attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e‑mail employ or call (612) 624‑8647.

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