Flow Cytometry Specialist

The Shared Instruments Core at The Hormel Institute provides a diverse group of researchers with the instrumentation and expertise to advance their research. This position will provide researchers with training, consultation, and support on our flow cytometry instrumentation, including BD LSR Fortessa cell analyzer and BD FACSARIA II cell sorter. The Flow Cytometry Specialist will be responsible for training users on operating and maintaining flow cytometers and providing researchers with advice on panels and experimental design. This position will be a key partner in growing the services offered in flow cytometry and working closely with colleagues to assess and recommend the directions of the core. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

Operate & Train Users on Flow Cytometry Instrumentation - 65%

* Operate and oversee daily operation of flow cytometry instrumentation, including BD LSR Fortessa and BD FACSARIA II cell sorter. Train and assist users and core technicians as needed.
* Collaborate with researchers on experimental design, panel design, and optimization of all types of experiments, trivial or advanced.
* Prepare and stain samples for flow cytometry analysis or cell sorting.
* Analyze data for users.
* Train or assist users on data analysis using FACSDiva, FlowJo, or other analysis software.
* Create and/or coordinate workshops and seminars to highlight different uses and advances in flow cytometry.
* Assist Shared Resources Supervisor in replacing, updating, and recommending instrumentation.
* Train other core technicians in all aspects of flow cytometry, including maintenance and QC.

Create & Implement Protocols for Cytometers & Apply New Advances in Technology - 20%

* Develop QC protocols for all aspects of flow cytometry and train core technicians and users in the implementation of these protocols.
* Review and update BSL2 sorting protocol and ensure laboratory safety requirements are met.
* Stay up to date on new technology and techniques, such as spectral or imaging flow cytometry. Share information with users, core leadership, and make recommendations for implementation of new advances.

Instrument Maintenance & Upkeep - 10%

* Responsible for instrument care and maintenance.
* Schedules repairs and PMs with manufacturer as needed.
* Orders consumables and supplies.

Other Duties as Assigned - 5%

Flexible Work Location Profile

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 five years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least nine years.
* Strong knowledge of Immunology and Cell Biology as it relates to Flow Cytometry.
* Demonstrated proficiency with BD LSR Fortessa, BD FACSARIA II cell sorter, BD FACSDiva and FlowJo.
* Knowledge of other Flow Cytometry analysis software and instrumentation.
* Strong computer skills.
* Excellent written, verbal, and customer service skills with a wide range of users.

Preferred Qualifications

* Advanced degree in related field of study.
* Desire to learn new techniques and share those with others.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

* Must be able to sort BSL-2 media samples.
* May be required to perform duties while wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators.
* Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs.

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: $36.11 to $45.15; 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).