Post-Doctoral Associate - Basic and Translational Research

About the Job:
The Department of Surgery at the University of Minnesota wishes to hire a full-time postdoc. This person will work on research related to projects funded by USDA NIH and other sources, developing novel NGS-based methods for diagnostics and basic research. Particularly, we are putting more effort into developing NGS-based methods for virus diagnostics, and high throughput virus-based screening against specific cancer targets. Successful candidates should have the capabilities to work in the field of virology and cancer biology.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities Include but are not limited to:

1. Participate in the design, implementation, and evaluation of research studies in NGS-based diagnostics and cancer therapy. Currently, we have an emphasis on a) the development of cancer therapeutics based on viral vectors, b) NGS-based virus diagnostics, and c) NGS data analysis.
The activities include in vitro and in vivo analyses of the products based on various molecular biology techniques for evaluation of developed diagnostics tests, therapeutics, and immunological analyses in vitro and in vivo, as well as collection and data analyses, reports, and publication of findings. Active participation in research activity is strongly encouraged.

2. Develop research ideas, projects, and study protocols
Actively participate in weekly lab meetings as well as Journal/Data Club.
Actively participate in weekly one-on-one meetings with PI and make constructive proposals.
Generate relevant and novel research ideas for new projects

3. Prepare and Present Abstracts for Podium or Poster
Write abstracts for submission to annual scientific meetings.
Present accepted abstracts as podium or poster during scientific meetings

4. Manuscript writing and submission to scientific journals
Complete manuscripts and submit to peer-reviewed journals without delay

Required:
* Ph.D., MD, or equivalent.
* Experienced in a relevant field of study such as Molecular biology, Next-gen sequencing, NGS data analysis, Virology, Molecular Genetics, Molecular Biology, Medical Biotechnology, or Immunology.
* Demonstrated experience in running scientific projects as an independent researcher as well as a valued team member.
* Willingness to participate in planning, designing, and performing top-level science in relevant fields.
* Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Preferred:
* Experience in Next-gen sequencing library preparation, NGS data analysis, gene delivery, virology, therapeutic genetic intervention (e.g., gene editing), the development of novel therapeutics, and techniques used in these fields.
* Experience with Good lab practice and manufacturing practices (GLP and/or GMP)
* Strong writing skills, including first-author, peer-reviewed publications.

About Basic and Translational Research

Basic and Translational Research is an institute within the Department of Surgery. BTR comprises of an intellectually diverse subgroup of non-clinical specialists. The division represents a wide-ranging skill set (laboratory administration, grant coordination, study design, and scholarly manuscript editing) that is dedicated to advancing the vital components of the threefold academic mission of teaching, research, and service.

Medical School

Committed to innovation and diversity, the Medical School educates physicians, scientists, and health professionals; generates knowledge and treatments; and cares for patients and communities with compassion and respect. We value excellence, inclusiveness, collaboration, and discovery.

Pay Range: $61,008 - $62,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• 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.

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).