Researcher - Department of Microbiology and Immunology

Position

The Researcher 2 will work independently and with other members of the laboratory to conduct experiments and analyze data. Primary research responsibilities include analyzing human clinical samples (viral titers and genomic analyses), performing in vitro experiments with cells and viruses to examine host responses to infection, and using methods such as RT‑qPCR, PCR, RNA‑seq, microscopy, flow cytometry, and data analysis. Additional duties involve general lab support, maintaining lab notebooks, digital data management, and presenting results at lab meetings.

• Research (80%) – Assist with experimental design and conduct experiments under supervision of senior lab members, analyze clinical samples, perform cell culture experiments, and analyze data sets.
• General lab support (10%) – Participate in lab tasks such as preparing reagents, autoclaving, tracking supplies, ordering, and onboarding new researchers.
• Writing and data presentation (10%) – Assist in writing, preparing figures, and presenting findings at lab meetings, and reviewing scientific literature.

• Education and Experience: BA/BS in molecular and cellular biology and 2 years of related experience or a combination equaling 6 years.
• Experience working with influenza virus.
• At least 2 years as an undergraduate researcher (or equivalent) in a research lab, including clinical studies and viral infection experiments.
• Experience in a BSL‑2 setting.
• Basic experience with Graph Pad Prism and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, team collaboration, and time‑management abilities.

Pay Range: $27 to $29 per hour, based on education, qualifications, and experience.

Appointment: 100% full‑time.

Position Type: Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor Represented Staff.

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, including the Regents Tuition Benefit Program.
• Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans.
• Health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• University HSA contributions.
• Disability and employer‑paid life insurance.
• Employee wellbeing program.
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contributions.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity.
• Financial counseling services.
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost.
• Employee transit pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area.

The University recognizes and values diversity and inclusion. 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.

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