Job ID359277 LocationTwin Cities Job FamilyResearch-Researchers Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code8352R1 Employee ClassCivil Service About the Job A position is available in Dr. Matthew Aliota's laboratory at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary medicine to study RNA virus evolution and transmission. Understanding how viruses overcome evolutionary barriers to emerge and cause disease in humans will be critical for prediction, prevention, and control of future viral threats. The successful applicant will provide technical assistance to help design experiments and develop improved technologies for virus sequencing from diagnostic test samples; and will work with public health partners to develop a data infrastructure capable of managing associations between publicly available sequence data and protected health information. Duties will include obtaining samples for sequencing from testing sites, isolating nucleic acids and performing genetic sequencing, and interpreting sequencing data, as well as communicating results with collaborators and sharing data publicly. The successful applicant will also be expected to assist in the preparation of data for publication purposes and participate in routine lab maintenance and other ongoing projects in Dr. Aliota's laboratory as needed. The position will involve close collaboration with other research teams at the University of Minnesota and beyond. Excellent written and oral communication skills are therefore essential. 30% Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results. 10% Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders. 20% Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences. 20% Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials. 10% Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers. 10% Performs literature reviews and writes reports. Qualifications All required qualifications must be documented on application materials Required Qualifications: BS in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, cellular biology, immunology or related field; or a combination of education and experience to equal four (4) years. The ability to multitask, learn new tasks, and organize many types of data from multiple projects accurately. The successful applicant should have a deep-seated interest in virology, be an excellent communicator, and have a strong desire to learn about and apply new technologies and data analysis. Biological safety level (BSL) 3 laboratory certification; certification for working with blood-borne pathogens. Both may be acquired upon hire. Working with samples that may contain the SARS-CoV-2 virus is an essential function of this position and it is strongly recommended that the successful applicant is vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 (may be completed upon hire) to reduce the risk of lab-acquired infection and transmission to others in the lab. Preferred qualifications: Applicant must understand complex concepts of immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, and virology. Experience with molecular biology techniques preferred. Experience in metagenomic sequencing preferred. This position involves using DNA sequencing to understand SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Since management of large numbers of samples and interpretation of sequencing data are complex, an applicant with strong computer skills is preferred. Benefits Working at the University At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in y ur life outside of work. The University also 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 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) Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area Please visit the for more information regarding benefits. 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. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [email protected] or call (612) 624-UOHR (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. 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: 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 the U of M 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),... For full info follow application link. 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.