Post-Doctoral Associate

The Verma lab at The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota is looking to hire a postdoctoral research associate. The primary focus of the lab is cancer immunotherapy and immune metabolism. Using cutting edge technology, the lab strives to establish the role of checkpoint inhibition and its interplay with metabolic pathways in the complex tumor microenvironment with an intent to improve the therapeutic outcomes. We are looking to recruit a highly motivated scientist as a Post-Doctoral Associate to work on projects related to immune-oncology, cell metabolism and cancer immunotherapy. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in immunology, cancer biology, basics of cancer immunotherapy and cellular metabolism. Experience working with mice, handling primary and continuous cell culture, multicolor FACS staining and analysis is highly desirable. Working knowledge of bioinformatic analysis of omics data is desired but not absolutely required. The selected candidate would be expected to bring intellectual and technical know-how of the research areas mentioned above. For more information, please refer to the recent publications (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/10e3dniOfhp56/bibliography/public/).

This position provides an excellent learning opportunity, access to state-of-the-art resources, including top-of-the-line instruments for immune-oncology, metabolism, structural biology, cell biology and microscopy. The candidate would also be encouraged to write postdoctoral grant applications. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

Undertaking Research as Assigned in Consultation with PI - 80%
* Expected to work on multiple aspects of one or more projects at any given time.
* Experimental design.
* Implementation and data collection.
* Analysis and dissemination of research data.
* Work independently but also to frequently collaborate with other lab members as well as scientists at the Hormel Institute and outside.
* Occasional training of junior lab staff including students and interns.

Animal Colony Management - 10%
* Order supplies.
* Cataloguing reagents.
* Maintaining the mice colony including breeding.
* Weaning and keeping a detailed log of the animal colony.

Generate Reports and Present Data at Meetings & Conferences - 10%
* Keep a detailed log of the experiments being done and arrange the data for presentation at regular lab meetings and other scientific meetings.

Work Profile
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, Office/Lab-Based - is expected to work primarily on-site in the office/lab. Only occasionally and inconsistently working remotely. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota. 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
* Ph.D., DDS, DVM, JD, MD or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications
* PhD in Immunology, cancer biology, biomedical sciences, or a related field.
* Hands on experience in mice handling.
* Ability to think and intellectual contribution to the project.
* Strong background and training in immunology and cancer biology.
* Ability to work with primary cell cultures, FACS staining, and data analysis.
* Experience with basic molecular biology techniques such as protein estimation, western blot analysis, qRTPCR, DNA/RNA isolation.
* Strong organization skills.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
* Able to effectively manage research projects with little oversight from the PI.
* Enthusiastic, self-motivated, keen to learn, and able to thrive in a highly collaborative and multi-disciplinary research environment.

Physical & Environmental Requirements
* Being able to conduct research either standing or sitting on a work chair.
* Occasionally lifting up to 25 pounds.
* Must be comfortable working in environments that may include close contact
with animals, animal byproducts, and related materials.
* Exposure to varying temperatures, outdoor environments, and potential odors
or airborne particles related to animal care

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: $62,232-$75,564, 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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