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Protein Biochemist-Researcher 4, Job ID: 348134

Employer
University of Minnesota-College of Veterinary Medicine
Location
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Salary
Competetive salary
Closing date
Jun 23, 2022

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Applications are invited for a Protein Biochemist (Researcher 4) to join an innovative research team working on the development and implementation of advanced next-generation diagnostic assays for prion and protein-misfolding diseases. Multiple research projects will be directed at utilizing cutting-edge technologies developed by the Minnesota Center for Prion Research and Outreach (MNPRO) for the identification of disease-causing proteins in both biological and ecological samples. Candidates with experience using metaproteomic techniques applied to environmental samples (e.g., soil, water) are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will join the MNPRO team, work closely with MNPRO leadership, and will be supervised by Dr. Peter A. Larsen at the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) in the University of Minnesota (UMN).

About us

MNPRO specializes in real-time surveillance of CWD in cervid populations and associated environments. The broader research team collaborates with a wide range of University of Minnesota faculty across multiple colleges and centers, as well as external team members to conduct research on prion and protein misfolding diseases circulating in wild mammals and humans, along with environmental detection. The MNPRO mission dovetails with the UMN CVM, which is dedicated to improve the health and well-being of animals and people, and strengthening Minnesota’s economy, by providing high quality education, and conducting leading-edge research. MNPRO cultivates a think-tank environment to conduct cutting edge science, develop strategic research priorities in the areas of diagnostics, epidemiology, and molecular biology, and collaborate through targeted outreach to become a worldwide hub for combating neurodegenerative disease.

The UMN is a state-of-the-art biomedical research enterprise. It is one of a handful of universities with colleges of agriculture, medicine, and technology on the same campus, and thrives on bringing together talented faculty from different fields to make fundamental discoveries in the biological and physical sciences, create new technologies, and find new treatments for disease. Science Watch ranked the University of Minnesota as one of the top 10 "Highest Impact U.S. Universities," and it ranks 6th in terms of revenue generation from university-based technologies. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, faculty, staff, and 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.

Job description

The protein biochemist position is available beginning late Summer/Fall 2022 with review of applicants beginning immediately. The scientist will work closely with UMN and external scientists with expertise in microfluidics, nanotechnology, prion biology, epidemiology, and diagnostics. The successful candidate will play an integral role in protein-based laboratory investigations, advancements, and discoveries. We are looking for a creative scientist to contribute intellectual input and leadership to our collaborative and interdisciplinary team.

  • 50% Prion assay optimization and R&D: Handle and manipulate both recombinant and infectious prion material; perform Western blotting, RT-QuIC, and novel assays; develop protein detection protocols for biological and ecological samples; work closely with experts in prion biology, microfluidics, and nanotechnology biosensors. 25% Data production, management, and analysis: Assay and laboratory data collection, management, and statistical analysis using various computer software and electronic record systems. 15% Publications and grant proposals: Assist with data preparation, production of figures and tables, and writing materials, methods, and results. 10% Regular laboratory duties: Maintain inventory; ensure biosafety compliance; management of records; training of staff and students.

Minimal qualifications and experience:

  • M.S. in microbiology, biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a closely related field and 2 years of related laboratory experience in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, microbiology, and/or metaproteomic, or BS in microbiology, biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a closely related field and 4 years of related laboratory experience in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, microbiology.
  • Publication(s) in peer-reviewed journals.

Preferred job qualifications:

  • Experience using metaproteomic techniques applied to environmental samples.
  • Training in molecular and cellular biology techniques including cell culture.
  • Expertise in recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization.
  • Previous experience working in a prion-focused BSL2 laboratory.
  • Previous experience with RT-QuIC technology, including the testing of biological and ecological samples.
  • Previous experience with protein quantification and qualification.
  • Ample Western blotting experience for routine protein detection.
  • First-authored publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Characteristics of a successful candidates:

  • A highly motivated individual who exhibits excellent research productivity, has exquisite attention for detail, and works well within a team environment.
  • A detail-oriented researcher that thinks critically and creatively to design experiments and solve complex research problems.
  • A collaborative, hands-on researcher who proactively shares knowledge and expertise with lab members.
  • The ability to be adaptable to accommodate shifting priorities and meet hard deadlines.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Salary and benefits:

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.

This position includes a comprehensive benefits package. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.

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