Research Professional 1 - Department of Microbiology and Immunology

The Gale Lab is seeking a researcher with organizational and time management skills to work on projects centered on virus identification, and innate immunity to virus infection. The ideal candidate will have an interest in performing protein/RNA/DNA assays including PCR and nucleic acid library production and analysis, mouse colony management, pre-clinical studies of virus infection and immunity, virus assays, immune assays, tissue dissection, histology, microscopy, tissue/cell culture and general lab management. The ideal applicant will be able to work both independently and as part of team. As specific tasks associated with this position will shift with each project; a willingness to learn and be flexible is critical for this position.

Position Responsibilities
* Lab procedures (70%): Under general supervision of senior lab members, assist in the preparation of solutions, extraction and measurement of protein/RNA/DNA, PCR, library prep, virus culture, cell culture, immune assays, and histology.

* Mouse colony management and use (10%): Based on written lab protocols, participate in mouse colony management and innate immune studies.

* General lab maintenance and lab compliance (10%)

* Documentation (10%): In collaboration with senior lab members, writes and maintains Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), detailed documentation of methods and experimental results.

* Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
* BA/BS (in a STEM related field) or a combination of related education (in a STEM related field) and work experience to equal four years
* At least 3 months experience as an undergraduate researcher (or equivalent) in a research lab, including experience with conducting biological assay(s)

Preferred Qualifications:
* Previous experience in a laboratory environment
* Ability to learn and develop and troubleshoot new procedures
* Ability to keep clear and comprehensive records
* Experience in extraction and measurement of protein/DNA/RNA
* Experience with tissue and/or cell culture
* Experience in microscopy, histology and immunohistochemistry
* Experience with pre-clinical models (e.g. small animal surgery, behavior, perfusion, dissection)
* Experience in management of mouse breeding colonies
* Experience with handling and working with biohazards

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology (DMI) is a basic science department in the University of Minnesota (UMN) School of Medicine. Our faculty focus on the study of microorganism and host interactions, and engage in translational research to build and evaluate preclinical and clinical applications of research discoveries aimed at mitigating disease. The department seeks to build on our rich history as we pursue transformational research. DMI faculty have a strong focus on immunology, virology, bacteriology, and fungal biology and they include research and training activities encompassing studies of microbial physiology and genetics, the immune response to infection based around a central theme of interrogating the systems biology of infection, immunity, and diseases.

Pay Range: $23 to $24.52 an hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% 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
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

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.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.