Researcher 1: GI Division, Liang Lab

This is an entry-level position for a laboratory researcher to join the Liang Lab at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Department of Medicine. Our laboratory is dedicated to applying the CRISPR-mediated genome-editing techniques for Gene Therapy and Cancer Research. Our long-term goal is to harness the capabilities of CRISPR to develop precise and targeted genome-editing strategies tailored to the challenges of lung and liver disease. This innovative approach holds promise for unlocking new avenues in gene therapy, cancer research, and immunotherapy.

The researcher will perform research projects that focus on three main areas: (i) developing and enhancing targeting efficiencies of CRISPR, (ii) high-throughput functional analysis of cancer-related genetic mutations, and (iii) identify neoantigens related to lung cancer and liver cancer.

We employ multidisciplinary approaches, including genetic engineered mouse models, CRISPR screens, Prime editors, Protein engineering, AAVs, LNP, single-cell RNA sequencing, FACS, Immunohistochemistry, and Next generation sequence. Additional information on our research projects can be found in our recent publications, including Nature Methods, Nature Biotechnology, Nature Communications, Cancer Research, EMBO molecular medicine, & Oncogene. More information on this research can be found here.

Over time, the researcher will receive multidisciplinary training in a highly collaborative and productive academic environment.

Duties and Responsibilities
70% Assistance with laboratory experiments and procedures
* Prepare LB media, distilled Water, pipette tips and agar plates
* Plasmid construction and isolation
* Maintains cell line cultures and Plasmid transfection
* Extract and quantify DNA from cell lines or animal tissue
* Prepare samples for sanger sequencing
* Perform and compile data related to molecular analyses including PCR, RT-qPCR, and western blots to evaluate mouse tissues

30% Laboratory organization
* Ensure the hoods and benches are cleaned in accordance with the lab protocols
* Maintain laboratory organization
* Assist with mouse experiments
* Performs preventative maintenance and record keeping procedures
* Maintains appropriate workstation materials and inventory

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required Qualifications
* BA/BS, preferably in Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or related disciplines; or a combination of related education and experience to equal four years
* Laboratory experience in basic molecular techniques, e.g., Cell culture, PCR, WB, IHC, Plasmid construction and isolation
* Ability to maintain and organized documentation of records of experimental work
* Good working knowledge of MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint, as well as fluency in computer techniques and software for experimentation and analysis
* Ability to self-motivate, multitask and make intellectual contributions to multiple projects.

Preferred Qualifications
* Enthusiastic about science and its potential to make a difference for people
* Runs RNA and protein assays with necessary troubleshooting
* Demonstrates an understanding of the scientific principles of laboratory testing as well as the technical, procedural and problem-solving aspects
* Assumes responsibility for good documentation practices and maintains clear and legible records

Pay Range: Depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-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).