Temporary Researcher - Department of Microbiology and Immunology

The Go lab in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Minnesota is seeking to hire a temporary researcher from May through Aug 2026. The employee occupying this position will perform virologic and molecular biology research focused on assessing virus-host interactions that regulate cellular pathways controlling flavivirus infection.

The primary responsibilities will be to carry out laboratory research and assist with basic lab tasks. Our lab studies innate immunity to Zika virus infection using a combination of in vitro, in vivo, and computational approaches. We need additional research support carrying out experiments and analyzing data.

The temporary researcher will work alongside Dr. Go and members of the Gale laboratory to carry out experiments and analyze data. The general research responsibilities will include cell culture experiments, sample processing and RNA isolation, qPCR and immunoblot analyses. Additional responsibilities include organizing and maintaining accurate records in a lab notebook, sample inventory, and presenting at lab meeting.

Position Responsibilities:
Research (80%): under supervision of Dr. Go, the Researcher will carry out experiments using established protocols (including cell culture techniques, gene expression and immunoblot analyses).

General lab tasks (10%): Perform general lab duties related to making solutions/reagents, autoclaving/stocking supplies and maintenance of research space, and other lab duties as requested.

Writing and data presentation (10%): includes maintaining a lab notebook that documents materials and methods, write up of results and interpretations of data analyses; presenting at lab meeting, and preparing figures from experimental data.

Required Qualifications:

• B.S. in biological sciences or related field with one or more years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Must have xcellent communication and interpersonal skills; demonstrate an ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Must be organized, detail oriented and have excellent time management skills.
  
  Preferred Qualifications:
• Coursework including foundations of chemistry, biology, and microbiology (or
  equivalent undergraduate coursework). General knowledge of methods in molecular
  biology and infectious diseases
• Knowledge of procedures for handling biohazard material; experience working in
  BSL2 and BSL2+ facilities is a plus
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Word and Excel for data reporting and experimental
  calculations; and Google applications (Google Sheets, Google Docs, etc.).

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.

Pay Range: $15.25/hour

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

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).