Major job functions for this position include the following.
1) Experimental design, execution, and analysis - 70%
- Consult on protocols and experimental design to test optimized RNAi constructs in the phenotypic assays.
- Guide the collection of live zebra mussels from area lakes and the maintenance of aquaria for culturing zebra mussels in the MAISRC containment facility.
- Conduct regular meetings with supervisor to discuss the progress of experimental results and progress updates.
- Monitor technological developments and suggest alternative methods and protocols.
- Develop new methods and protocols or modify existing protocols.
- Independently troubleshoot experiments, processes, and instruments.
- Accurately collect, analyze and interpret data.
- Evaluate and clearly communicate experimental results.
- Keep detailed records of experiments, of sufficient quality to allow publication of results and full reproduction of experiments.
- Ensure that data and research materials are organized, maintained, and archived when appropriate, ensuring future access.
- Coordinate experiments with other staff members.
- Work collaboratively with other staff and researchers.
- Perform multiple complex scientific procedures effectively, efficiently and independently.
- Operate all specialized instrumentation and technologies to meet project specifications on time.
2) Write research progress reports, presentations, and publications - 20%
- Aid in preparation of quarterly, annual, interim, and final progress reports and other status updates for the funding agency.
- Assist with data analysis, organization, and the preparation of presentations and publications.
3) Supervise and Mentor - 10%
- Supervise and mentor, as needed, undergraduate, graduate students, junior scientists and postdocs working on related research projects.
Percent time of appointment: 33.3%
Monday-Friday, 9:00AM-5:30PM: The exact time worked is flexible. Typical shifts are around 3-4 hours. Profile Four - Fully Remote Time spent working remotely is 100% with occasional but inconsistent presence in UMN locations. Collaborative or shared on campus work space to be provided while on campus.

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

Required (Minimum) Qualifications: Position requires an advanced degree with substantial research and publication record. Major in science with focus in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, cancer biology, or related science field. At least one year of research training in related field including zebra mussels. Experience in a laboratory environment with a background in genomic research and/or high-throughput methodologies. Demonstrated experience in research and/or project management as well as data analysis. Ability to follow oral directions and written protocols precisely, independently motivated, able to manage time and meet deadlines, strong communication skills, meticulous organizational skills, reliability and accountability of work. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with others. Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications: (Selection Criteria) Extensive molecular biology laboratory experience including working under BSL2 plus conditions. Experience with writing manuscripts and/or grants. Record of presenting research results through publications and conference abstracts. Deep and broad experience with and knowledge of aquatic invasive species. Rigorous and scrupulous attention to experimental detail. Ability to think creatively about scientific problems. Experience in bio-informatic analysis and statistical analysis of experimental data.

Must be able to lift 25 pounds.

This position is located in the University of Minnesota Genomics Center (UMGC) Innovation Lab. The UMGC Innovation Lab is a research group that operates within the UMGC and develops novel tools and technologies for genomics and genetics research. The researcher in this position will conduct experiments to assist with zebra mussel culturing, the development of phenotypic assays, and scientific oversight of the UMGC staff carrying out experiments. This position will provide guidance and hands-on effort on the collection, husbandry, and phenotypic analysis of zebra mussels.

Duties may include but not be limited to conducting experiments, analyzing data, recording and documenting results, presenting results in formal and informal settings, contributing to scientific publications, as well as working to support the research activities of the Innovation Lab. The work performed may also involve training employees and collaborating with non-UMGC researchers.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and 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.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

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