Innovation Lab Scientist

Position Duties and Responsibilities 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 development of RNAi reagents and engineered microbes.
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.

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and the University of Minnesota Genomics Center (UMGC) endorses a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote.

This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile 3. Profile 3 is expected to work remotely more than 50% of the time. Collaborative or shared on campus work space to be provided while on campus. The University of Minnesota Genomics Center management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

Appointment Percent: 50%
Term and Type of Appointment: 12-Months, Annually Renewable, Professional & Administrative
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. (The exact time worked is flexible. Typical shifts are around 3-4 hours.).

Physical and Environmental Requirements: Must be able to lift 25 pounds.

Required Qualifications
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
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.

This part-time 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 the development of RNAi-based biocontrol methods for zebra mussels. This position will provide guidance and hands-on effort on the molecular techniques and microbial engineering.

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.

Pay Range: $50,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 50% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

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 supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• 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, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given 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.

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.

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. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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