Research Pro 1-Life Sci-Multidisc - Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology

About Our Lab
The Verkerke lab is a dynamic and collaborative research group dedicated to understanding the fundamental molecular mechanisms of metabolism. Our work focuses on how nutrient sensing pathways contribute to metabolic disease. We use a combination of cutting-edge techniques in cell biology, molecular biology, and mouse genetics to tackle major questions in metabolic health and disease. We are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and rigorous scientific environment where every member has the opportunity to grow intellectually and professionally.

Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated, organized, and enthusiastic Research Technician to join our team. The successful candidate will be a crucial member of our group, providing broad technical and operational support for our ongoing research projects. This position is ideal for a recent graduate with a passion for biomedical science who is looking to gain significant hands-on research experience before pursuing further graduate or professional studies (e.g., PhD, MD, or MD/PhD programs). The role involves working closely with the Principal Investigator, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students, with opportunities for co-authorship on publications and intellectual contribution to projects.

Key Responsibilities:

Experimental Support (70%):
* Perform and troubleshoot a variety of molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, qPCR, cloning, and western blotting.
* Conduct mammalian cell culture, including maintaining cell lines, performing transfections, and preparing cell lysates.
* Assist with experiments using mouse models of metabolic disease, including colony management, genotyping, and performing metabolic analyses (e.g., glucose and insulin tolerance tests, tissue harvesting).

Data Management & Analysis (10%):
* Maintain a detailed and accurate electronic lab notebook.
* Perform basic data analysis and prepare figures for presentations and publications.

Laboratory Operations & Management (20%):
* Manage and organize lab inventory, including ordering reagents and consumables.
* Prepare common lab solutions and reagents.
* Ensure the proper maintenance of laboratory equipment.
* Help maintain a safe and clean laboratory environment in accordance with institutional guidelines.

What We Offer
* A collaborative and stimulating research environment.
* Dedicated mentorship and guidance for career development.
* Opportunities to learn state-of-the-art techniques in metabolism research.
* A competitive salary and benefits package in accordance with institutional policies.

Required Qualifications:
*A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Physiology, Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific field. Or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least four years.
* Previous hands-on experience in a biological research laboratory (undergraduate research experience is sufficient).
* Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
* A strong work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and a collaborative mindset.
* Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications:
* 1+ years of post-graduate research experience.
* Direct experience with mouse handling and husbandry.
* Proficiency in standard molecular biology and cell culture techniques.
* A demonstrated ability to learn new techniques and concepts quickly.

The Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology's research centers on integrative systems biology of the heart and vasculature, including the close linkages among cardiovascular diseases and obesity, diabetes and metabolism at the whole animal level. The department is ideally positioned to bridge basic science discoveries to clinically relevant applications, spanning from academia to our neighbors in the biomedical industry.

Pay Range: $22.25 per hour - $24.70; 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.

This position requires that you attach the following documents:

1. A Cover Letter describing your research interests, relevant experience, and career goals.
2. A Curriculum Vitae (CV).
3. Contact information for at least two professional or academic references.

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).