Research Professional 4-Biochemistry

Summary:

The research scientist to be hired will conduct laboratory-based research on cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate photoreceptor cell development, survival, opsin trafficking, retinoid metabolism, and molecular mechanisms of retinal cell and RPE degeneration in age related eye diseases, using cell culture, and mouse models, combined with cutting-edge molecular/cell biology and human genomics approaches.

This role is designated as an essential employee position. The incumbent is expected to report for duty and complete their responsibilities during emergency closures unless specifically instructed otherwise.

Job Responsibilities:

• Perform in vitro experiments designed to analyze trafficking of rhodopsin, by generating recombinant plasmids. Independently design, prioritize, and execute experimental strategies aligned with project objectives. Select appropriate methodological approaches from among multiple alternatives based on scientific rationale, feasibility, and resource availability, to improve rigor, efficiency, and reproducibility (20%).
• Perform western blot analysis, ChIP assays, EMSA assays enzyme activity assays, DNA/RNA-binding affinity measurement, surface plasmon resonance, etc. Lead substantial experimental planning and scheduling across interconnected studies. Anticipate technical and scientific obstacles and develop proactive mitigation strategies (20%).
• Maintain mice colonies and perform ERGs, OCT, SLO, and other non-invasive assays for visual function. Serve as the technical lead for development, testing, validation, optimization, and troubleshooting of assays and experimental platforms (40%).
• Perform HPLC analysis of retinoids from various mice tissues. Ensure technical rigor, reproducibility, and documentation standards are consistently met (20%).
• Design experiments as per individual project needs.
• Assist the PI with new project development including literature review.
• Assist with proposal preparation, but not budget.
• May mentor/train/supervise undergraduate and medical students.

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Ophthalmology, Biochemistry, or Molecular Biology or equivalent.
• Experience: At least five (5) years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least nine (9) years; including at least two (2) years of direct research experience.
• Prior first author publications and in-depth knowledge in one or more of the following research fields: protein trafficking, ophthalmology, retinal degenerative diseases, structural modeling, human genetics, or neurosciences.
• Expertise and knowledge in experimental approaches, e.g., protein trafficking, protein purifications, 2-photon or confocal microscopy, HPLC analysis of retinoids, and in vivo (mouse genetics) approaches.
• Basic understanding of bioinformatic analysis workflows and statistical analysis.
• Experience in manuscript writing and presentations at scientific conferences.

Preferred Qualifications:

• MSc or PhD degree in the field of Ophthalmology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or equivalent is highly preferred.
• Self-motivated with a demonstrated record of academic excellence.
  

The Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences and its success is built upon the innovation and drive of every member of our team, from faculty to administrators to technicians. Put simply, all of us are driven to provide the best eye care for our patients, discover new treatments, and educate the next generation of eye care professionals.

For more information please visit our website at https://med.umn.edu/Ophthalmology.

Expected Starting Hourly Range: $34.82 - $36.91. Final offer amount is determined by the candidate's education, qualifications, and relevant experience, and is subject to departmental funding availability.

Time Appointment: This positon will be offer at 80% to 100% time

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/pharmacy, dental, and disability plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• 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).