Researcher 1

Summary of Position:

The position is within the laboratory of Pippa Kennedy, PhD at the Masonic Cancer Research Center. The employee will work on improving natural killer based immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer. The work will be centered around advanced microscopy image generation and analysis (multiplex spatial tissue imaging), but will involve a variety of techniques and team science. The ideal candidate would be interested in furthering the scientific understanding of the immunology of cancer and optimizing the use of technology for use by the lab. Responsibilities will be carried out with instruction, guidance and direction from supervisor. Funding for this position is available for at least three years with potential to extend.

Dr. Kennedy's research group sits within a collection of laboratories interested in furthering natural killer cell therapeutics for the treatment of cancer with which there will be frequent interaction (sites.google.com/umn.edu/miller).

Job Functions by % Time:

(40%) 'Wet lab' work including tissue sample preparation and staining, microscopy, flow cytometry, sterile tissue culture and cell based assays.

(40%) Data analysis using a variety of software packages (ImageJ, QuPath, LasX, Nikon Elements, Imaris, CellProfiler, Graphpad Prism, Excel) with a particular focus on spatial analysis of microscope images.

(10%) Report generation and record keeping

(10%) Researching and developing new assays and techniques to assess natural killer cell function.

Qualifications

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Bio-physics, Computer Science, Engineering or a related field of science or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years.
• Previous experience in a research setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Interest in immunology and cancer
• Experience with microscopy and microscopy analysis, particularly nearest neighbor and proximity algorithms
• Familiarity with a programming language (R preferred)
• Wet lab experience: Knowledge of general lab techniques and aseptic cell culture
• Ability to identify and troubleshoot problems
• Good communication, record keeping, and technical writing skills
• Experience with molecular biology and flow cytometry

About the Department

The Masonic Cancer Center (MCC) is an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center dedicated to cancer research, education, and patient care for the citizens of Minnesota and the surrounding region. Since the time of the first award in 1997, there has been consistent growth of the membership and research base, enabling our center to further advance our knowledge and enhance care for our catchment area. We are driven to be the choice academic healthcare environment for patients, clinicians, scientists and students who seek exceptional, compassionate, precision cancer therapy; innovative clinical trials and prevention programs; cutting-edge research opportunities; and outstanding advanced education.

Benefits

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
• 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

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

How To Apply

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.

Diversity

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

Employment Requirements

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.

About the U of M

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).