Post-Doctoral Associate

Summary:

We are excited to announce the launch of our new lab in January 2025, within the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development at the University of Minnesota. We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral associate to join our team. This role involves developing and applying single-cell systems biology approaches to elucidate how signaling variability at the single-cell level contributes to cancer progression and to tackle challenges in cancer treatments.

About Our Lab:

Our lab uses mass cytometry to profile the states and dynamics of up to 40 intracellular phosphorylation sites on key signaling proteins in single cells. This comprehensive measurement enables us to precisely determine the signaling and physiological states of each individual cell, including growth, proliferation, and responses to stress and inflammation, and to understand how these signaling activities integrate to determine cell fate.

We also engineer dynamic and reactive DNA probes to expand the sensitivity and coverage of protein post-translational modification assessment and protein-protein interaction analysis. Combined with advanced single-cell and omics approaches, our methods allow for in-depth exploration of intracellular signaling networks and physical interaction networks in health and diseases.

Using these methods, we aim to comprehensively interrogate the heterogeneous intracellular signaling networks involved in cancer progression. We seek to identify intracellular signaling responses underlying diverse susceptibility to cancer treatments and specific kinase inhibitors in clinical settings, ultimately aiming to enhance outcomes for cancer patients through the discovery of new druggable targets.

Learn more about us at lun.umn.edu, or directly contact Dr. Xiaokang Lun (xlun@umn.edu).

Responsibilities:

* Mass cytometry analysis with the state-of-the-art CyTOF XT system
* Development and validation of novel single-cell methodologies and protocols
* Experiments with cultured mammalian cell lines, primary cells, and patient-derived human cell samples
* Single-cell data analysis with advanced computational approaches
* Writing and publishing research findings in scientific journals
* Participating in lab meetings and journal clubs
* Supervising trainees and students in the laboratory

Contact Information:

Dr. Xiaokang Lun
Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development
University of Minnesota
Email: xlun@umn.edu

Required Qualifications:

* Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. degree in systems biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, cancer biology, immunology, pharmacology, or related fields

Preferred Qualifications:

* Expertise or experience with mass cytometry, single-cell sequencing, or mass spectrometry
* Computational skills with Python, R, or MATLAB
* Good publication record
* Excellent verbal and written scientific communication skills

The Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development comprises faculty from both the Medical School and the College of Biological Sciences. Faculty members are engaged in research in three key disciplines of the department-genetics, cell biology and developmental biology.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also 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
• Employee wellbeing program
• 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

*Specific Postdoc Benefits: https://policy.umn.edu/hr/postdocappoint-appa

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

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.

Lun Lab Application Documents: Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

* A cover letter describing your research interests and career goals
* A detailed CV including a list of publications
* Contact information for three references

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 the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).