Rsch Pro 3-Genetics/Cell Bio

The Department of Pediatrics is seeking an experienced, highly skilled Researcher 3 to work in translational gene therapy, cellular engineering, and induced pluripotent stem cell research. The ideal candidate brings 8-10+ years of comprehensive laboratory expertise across immunology, molecular biology, flow cytometry, and preclinical disease modeling. This role requires advanced capability in high-dimensional spectral flow cytometry, ex vivo and in vivo disease modeling, gene-editing workflows, primary immune cell expansion, and multi-modal tissue imaging.

Key Responsibilities
Experimental Design & Cellular Assays (40%)

• Design, optimize, and execute high-dimensional multicolor and spectral flow cytometry panels for = immunophenotyping and functional characterization of T cells, NK cells, B cells, and myeloid subsets.
• Isolate primary mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from fresh blood, leukopaks, and trima cones, maintaining primary human and murine immune cell cultures.
• Develop and run functional ex vivo immune assays, immune cell engineering workflows, and recombinant protein/antibody applications in assays.

Preclinical Modeling & Translational Research (40%)

• Execute complex ex vivo and in vivo murine disease modeling studies, including bone marrow transplantation (BMT) protocols and donor-derived microglial replacement strategies.
• Perform animal handling, colony management (breeding, genotyping, maintenance), drug dosing, biomarker evaluation, and both survival and non-survival surgeries.
• Conduct multi-modal tissue and organ imaging utilizing in vivo/ex vivo MRI, microCT, live-cell imaging, and confocal microscopy (e.g., Nikon AXR).
• Process and analyze clinical and patient-derived specimens to evaluate cellular engraftment, therapeutic efficacy, and disease progression.

Data Analysis, Dissemination & Laboratory Operations (20%)

• Analyze datasets using FlowJo, GraphPad Prism, ImageJ, and NIS Elements, performing thorough statistical evaluations and experimental troubleshooting.
• Contribute directly to peer-reviewed manuscript preparation, grant proposal development, and research presentations at internal seminars and scientific conferences.
• Train/mentor junior research associates, fellows, and students.

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials

Requried Qualifications:

• BA/BS degree plus at least four years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least eight years.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree or relevant graduate-level coursework in Biomedical Sciences (Immunology, Molecular Genetics, NMR/Microscopy).
• Prior industry or clinical-grade research experience in antibody development, CAR-T/Treg/NK cell selection systems, or magnetic bead isolation platforms.
• Expertise in gene-editing applications (CRISPR/Cas9) and cellular engineering workflows.
• Advanced capabilities in confocal microscopy, live-cell imaging systems, and image quantitative analysis.
• Strong track record of scientific publication and formal oral presentation of research findings.

Pay Range: $55,000 - $60,000/year; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 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

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

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 jobcentr@umn.edu.

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 Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.

The University of Minnesota Medical School

Committed to innovation and diversity, the Medical School educates physicians, scientists, and health professionals; generates knowledge and treatments; and cares for patients and communities with compassion and respect. We value excellence, inclusiveness, collaboration, and discovery.
The mission of the regional campus located in Duluth is to be a national leader in improving healthcare access and outcomes in rural Minnesota and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities. In partnership with CentraCare, the regional campus in St. Cloud offers a wide range of patient experiences throughout students' education in Greater Minnesota and prepares them to become exceptional clinicians and leaders for rural and immigrant populations.

Founded in 1888, the University of Minnesota Medical School has three campuses. A four-year MD program and the MD/PhD program are located on the Twin Cities campus in addition to MD programs at regional campuses in Duluth and St. Cloud.