Researcher 1

About the Job

The Molecular Therapeutics Lab in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Minnesota is seeking a highly motivated, independent part-time (50% appointment / 20 hours per week) Researcher 1 focused on drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases. Our lab sits at the intersection of molecular biology, advanced cellular modeling, and therapeutic development.

About the Position

This position will support the PI in designing and executing bench-scale research projects, targeting therapeutic interventions for neurodegeneration. Responsibilities include:

• Supporting the design and execution of bench-scale research projects.
• Maintaining and developing cell cultures and multicellular assemblies, specifically neuron-glial spheroids.
• Utilizing molecular biology techniques and specialized biophysical assays, including Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) measurements, to evaluate drug candidates.
• Analyzing, interpreting, and documenting experimental data to drive the drug discovery timeline forward under the guidance of the PI.

Primary Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities consist of:

• 90% of Time (approx. 18 hours/week) – Research & Drug Discovery Pipeline
• Supporting the PI in designing and executing bench-scale research projects, targeting therapeutic interventions for neurodegeneration.
• Aiding in the development and maintenance of cell cultures and multicellular assemblies, specifically neuron-glial spheroids.
• Utilizing molecular biology techniques and specialized biophysical assays, including Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) measurements, to evaluate drug candidates.
• Analyzing, interpreting, and documenting experimental data to drive the drug discovery timeline forward under the guidance of the PI.
• 10% of Time (approx. 2 hours/week) – Scientific Communication & Grant Support
• Contributing to the drafting, editing, and submission of peer-reviewed scientific publications.
• Assisting in the preparation and writing of federal, state, and private foundation grant proposals.

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm

Work Environment

In-person at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities East Bank campus

Visa Language

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

This is a part-time temporary position

It is possible this position might be extended depending on satisfactory performance, the availability of funds and/or work for the position, and meeting standard University employment requirements.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least four years.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and standard molecular biology techniques.
• Demonstrated experience with, or strong theoretical understanding of, FRET measurements.
• Strong technical writing skills with an aptitude for contributing to scientific literature or grant components.
• Excellent organizational skills and the capacity to manage a bench project independently within a part-time schedule.

PREFERRED:

• Prior experience working specifically with multicellular assemblies or 3D culture systems (e.g., spheroids or organoids).
• Prior experience assisting with published scientific papers or grant applications.
• Background knowledge in the mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, ALS).

About the Department

The Department of Biomedical Engineering is an academic unit of the College of Science and Engineering that administers biomedical engineering degree programs at all levels (bachelor's, master's, and doctoral). While research possibilities among the graduate faculty span the full spectrum of biomedical engineering, the Department has established interests in cardiovascular, neural, and cancer engineering. We seek to focus growth and excellence in these research areas as we grow.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $21.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement Plan Options: Available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

How To Apply

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.

Required Application Materials: Resume required

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

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.

Employment Requirements

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.

About University of Minnesota

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.