Rsch Pro 3-Biomed Research

The Aslanidi Lab research is focused on bioengineering and the application of Adeno-Associated virus (AAV) vectors for the purpose of lung-directed gene. The research addresses several important drawbacks in AAV-based gene therapy such as vector efficiency to transduce lung epithelial and basal cells, pre-existing and therapy-activated immunogenicity, scaled-up vector production, and assessment of efficacy in pre-clinical animal models. The goal of our research is to ensure advancement of gene therapy treatment for patients with lung-specific genetic diseases.

Job Responsibilities

* Carry out viral vector production and validation.
* Work with airway epithelial primary cells, and blood from small and large animals, as well as humans.
* Carry out animal experiments, necropsy, and tissue processing.
* Evaluate AAV-mediated gene expression in airway epithelial cell by qPCR, immunostaining and flow cytometry.
* Collect, analyze data and write reports.
* Comply with IBC, IACUC, and IRB policies, and maintain a safe and healthy laboratory environment.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

80% - Ongoing Research

* Conduct experiments under direction of PI and senior lab members.

10% - Analysis & Review

* Analysis generated data and write data report.

10% - Lab Maintenance

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorses a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.

This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile One.
Flexible Work Profile One is expected to work primarily on-site. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, MN. The Hormel Institute management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

Required Qualifications

* BA/BS degree plus at least 4 years of relevant work experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least 8 years.

Preferred Qualifications

* Candidates with experience in gene therapy and viral vectors, particularly Adeno-associated virus vectors.
* Candidate with experience in primary airway epithelial cell biology.
* Candidate interested in pre-clinical and translational research.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

* Must be comfortable working in environments that may include close contact with animals, animal byproducts, and related materials.
* Exposure to varying temperatures, outdoor environments, and potential odors or airborne particles related to animal care.

The Hormel Institute is an independent biomedical research institution within the University of Minnesota's Research and Innovation Office. Established in 1942, our mission is to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences with applications in medicine and agriculture, specifically by understanding, treating, and controlling cancer and other chronic diseases. The Hormel Institute serves as a center of technical and educational expertise for the benefit of the local community, the State of Minnesota, and beyond. We are located in the uniquely diverse rural community of Austin, MN, conveniently only 35 miles from Rochester, MN, and 100 miles (1.5 hours) south of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The Hormel Institute is committed to fostering a work environment that promotes inclusive excellence, supportive employee practices, and encourages diversity of thought that drives innovation and creativity in our science.

Pay Range: $31.02 - $38.77 per hour, depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Time Appointment Category: 75%-100% Appointment (If job description above does not specify appointment or expected weekly hours, assume a 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

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).