Post-Doctoral Associate

The Gradilone Lab at The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, is seeking a motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Associate with a background in cancer and/or liver research. The ideal candidate should possess strong expertise in cell biology and in vivo mouse modeling, with additional experience in cancer biology, cilia biology, or liver research being highly valued. Proficiency in animal modeling of human diseases, histopathology, computational biology, and molecular biology techniques are also considered strong assets. This role calls for an intellectually driven individual to lead a primary project and actively contribute to ongoing research in the lab.

The current focus of the Gradilone lab is to investigate the fundamental mechanisms of tumorigenesis, with a particular emphasis on the role of primary cilia in bile duct cancer and the liver tumor microenvironment. Primary cilia act as sensory organelles that allow cells to detect and respond to their environment. Findings of the lab show that primary cilia are often lost in tumor cells, and we aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms and consequences of this loss. Recently, work has led to methods for restoring primary cilia in tumor cells, which has the potential to revert malignant cells to a more normal phenotype, paving the way for novel therapeutic approaches.

The lab integrates in vitro human and murine cell models, organoid approaches, and in vivo mouse models to achieve a comprehensive understanding of these processes. This position offers a unique opportunity for hands-on experience with advanced research tools, access to state-of-the-art core facilities, and an engaging learning environment.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

The candidate would be expected to work on multiple aspects of one or more projects at any one time. This will include, but is not limited to, experimental design, implementation, and data collection as well as the analysis and dissemination of research data. The individual would be expected to work independently but also to frequently collaborate with other lab members as well as scientists intramurally and at other institutions. As an integral part of our research team, the candidate would be expected to help us to always maintain a safe and professional work environment and to actively participate in regular group meetings.

Propose, Plan, and Conduct Laboratory-Based Experiments - 50%

- In collaboration with the PI and other lab personnel, propose, optimize, and plan experiments that will advance our lab's research objectives.
- Plan and manage own or joint research activity.
- Conduct individual and collaborative research projects.
- Carry out a wide range of wet lab experiments efficiently and safely.
- Set and maintain highly rigorous standards and procedures.
- Develop competency in the use of advanced technologies relevant to the lab's research objectives.

Process and Analyze Data - 20%

- Use advanced, specialized software tools to process data collected from laboratory experiments.
- Compile and analyze processed data using a variety of software tools.

Science Communications - 10%

- Communicate research findings and specialist knowledge/expertise to different audiences, including the PI and group members, the broader scientific community, and the general public, among others.
- Regularly document progress in lab notebooks and similar formats.
- Assist the PI and other lab personnel in writing text and generating figures to disseminate research findings in posters, presentations, manuscripts, and grant applications.
- Demonstrate outstanding interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with large teams, international partners across time zones, and individuals at all levels of seniority, both in-person and online, including in meetings and conference calls.

Laboratory oversight and administration - 10%

- Assist the PI and other lab personnel in maintaining a safe, clean, and productive laboratory environment.
- Assist with laboratory receiving, ordering, and inventory management, as needed.
- Assist with other lab admin responsibilities including, but not limited to, lab cleaning, maintenance of stocks, maintenance of equipment, and laboratory waste management.
- Develop or contribute to drafting standard operating procedures in the lab.
- Manage own administrative activities, with guidance if required.

Training and development - 5%

- Through interactions with the PI and other lab personnel, workshops, courses, and seminars, develop and/or extend expertise in research techniques applicable to the lab's research objectives.
- Assist with supervision and training of new lab personnel and oversight of junior laboratory personnel.
- Participate in professional development opportunities.

Other duties as assigned - 5%

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

- PhD in Biological Sciences, Cancer Biology, or related field.

Preferred Qualifications

- Strong background and training in cell biology, liver pathobiology, and/or cancer biology.
- Advanced scientific and laboratory knowledge in molecular biology, mammalian cell culture, murine genetic models, xenotransplantation, genetic screens (e.g. CRISPR or forward mutagenesis), cell biology, tissue culture techniques.
- Expertise in data analysis (e.g. analysis of bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing) is also highly desirable.
- Strong organization skills as well as strong written and verbal communication skills in English are required.
- The candidate must be able to effectively manage research projects with little oversight from the PI.
- We are particularly interested in a candidate who is enthusiastic, self-motivated, keen to learn, and able to thrive in a highly collaborative and multi-disciplinary research environment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and can work well across a large team.
- Be able to effectively communicate with international external collaborators who may be working across different time zones.
- Liaise effectively with individuals across all levels of seniority.
- Communicate effectively both in-person and online.

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: $61,008 - $74,088 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

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.

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