Post Baccalaureate Researcher (PACE)

The Hormel Institute Post Baccalaureate Accelerated Career Experience (PACE) is structured to equip participants for a research- focused biomedical doctoral degree upon program completion. Its principal objective is to elevate participants' research proficiencies and academic competitiveness, addressing the urgent call for diverse investigators in both fundamental and translational research. Priority will be given to candidates aspiring to bolster their laboratory skills, expand their knowledge in fundamental biomedical research areas, and prepare for rigorous and cutting-edge graduate research and training.

Program Features

• One year comprehensive research experience in The Hormel Institute's cutting edge research labs.
• Professional development in a variety of topics & formats including journal club, grad school preparation, scientific communication, poster creation and presentation, responsible conduct of research, internal and external seminars.
• Complete 2-week immersion program (Ramp Up) in which participants will learn from mentors and complete assessments to ensure seamless integration into the lab based experience.
• Intentional student and mentor pairing based on research and career interests.
• Customized Individual Development Plan crafted for each participants success.
  

Program Benefits

• Salary and full eligibility for The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota's benefit package, including low-cost, comprehensive medical coverage and paid time off.
• Mentoring and guidance to foster a seamless transition into a research doctorate program.
• Program designed to build a sense of community within cohort for support with participants and mentors.
• Tailored seminars and professional development to expand each student's scientific area of focus and its correlation to biomedical research.
  

Focus of Job Responsibilities

Lab Research Training - 75%

• Perform laboratory experiments that include protein expression, purification, and cell culture work as well as other relevant methodologies applicable to biomedical research.
• Preparation of buffers and solutions following standard lab protocols.
• Perform and modify documented protocols and assays.
• Maintain laboratory records and compile data on experiments and assays.
• Interpret and report on experimental results.
• Perform statistical analysis of test results and prepare written reports on work performed.
• Participate in lab meetings.
• Clean, sanitize and maintain laboratory bench space and equipment such as autoclaving glassware.
• Biohazard waste utilization by autoclaving.
• Maintain lab supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level while placing. and expediting orders for supplies and verifying receipt of supplies.
• Organize and maintain up-to-date laboratory safety protocols.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations in conjunction with the laboratory.
• Keep track of lab personnel training records.
  

Professional Development & Training - 25%

• Participate in a two-week ramp-up period dedicated to intentional lab match-ups and learning.
• Collaborate with mentors and peers to identify suitable lab environments and research projects.
• Engage in targeted training sessions to acquire necessary skills and knowledge, empowering participants to achieve success
• Attend and actively participate in weekly PACE program sessions.
• Engage with site-wide programming, including data club, journal club, scientific seminars, and talks by external speakers.
• Conduct weekly planning sessions to set goals and reflect on progress.
• Document reflections and learning outcomes to track professional growth.
• Attend seminars focused on learning, sharing scientific communication, and responsible conduct of research.
• Engage in discussions and activities to enhance understanding and application of seminar topics.
  

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 or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years
  

Preferred Qualifications

• GPA of 3.0 or greater.
• Successful completion of baccalaureate degree in a biomedically relevant field within 36 months of application.
• One (1) year of research experience.
• Excitement and interest in research related career.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to leadership and service.

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.

• 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.

Apply by Submitting:

- Current Resume or CV
- Undergraduate Transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal Statement: Describing your academic and career goals, interest in biomedical research, any research experience, if applicable, and how you will benefit from the PACE program (1 page maximum)

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).