Researcher 5 - Department of Microbiology and Immunology

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology seeks a scientist (Researcher 5) to join the Gale lab. The Gale lab wants to understand how viral and host factors impact innate and adaptive immune defenses to determine the outcome of virus infection. To replicate and spread efficiently, many viruses encode factors that direct the suppression of innate immunity in the host cell. Our studies are focused on (i) defining the pattern recognition receptor (PRR) pathways and regulatory features of these pathways by which cells induce innate immunity, (ii) defining the viral strategies used to disarm or evade innate immune processes in infected cells and tissues, and (iii) determining how the processes of virus and host control of innate immune defenses regulate the outcome of virus infection. The significance of this work to human and animal health is that we will gain a detailed understanding of the molecular processes by which viral pathogens trigger and control immunity to infection, thus allowing us to define new antiviral targets and vaccine strategies for the development of specific and effective immunotherapies to control virus infection.

Responsibilities:

80% Conduct Research Projects

Performs experiments with various viruses and infect mice in a BSL2, BSL2 plus and BSL3 environments. Process tissue for flow cytometric analysis, single cell RNA sequencing, microarray analysis, western blotting and other techniques needed for the research projects. Assist in the growth and maintenance of viruses used for laboratory projects and documentation of freezer stocks. Help to set up, operate, and maintain a Next Generation Sequencing robot that will be used to discover novel sequences of interest. Prepare research for presentations and publications. Assist in grant writing.

10% Research Management and Dissemination

Attend, participate or present at laboratory meetings, seminars and conferences as needed. Coordinate with collaborators from different universities and institutes about research. Provide research updates to collaborators and prepare reports to funding agencies.

10% Laboratory Oversight

Assist in the writing of lab SOPS and amendments to IACUC and IBC protocols needed for projects. Assist in the training of new lab personnel. Instruct, direct, and supervise junior lab personnel as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Advanced degree in microbiology or related field and at least 1 year of experience.
• Excellent microbiology, molecular biology, and data analysis skills as well as strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated expertise in statistical methods in data analysis

About the Department

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology is a community of scholars committed to discovering and disseminating knowledge about the microbial world. Our interests and expertise encompass some of the most exciting areas of contemporary microbiology and immunology, ranging from the physiology and development of microorganisms, the molecular pathogenesis of infections, and fundamental aspects of immunity.

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).