Rsch Pro 5-Biochemistry

Summary: The Jain Lab (https://cbs.umn.edu/directory/kanishk-jain) is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Research Professional 5 to conduct hands-on biochemical research and support the day-to-day operations of a growing laboratory. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic research environment and takes pride in both rigorous science and keeping a lab running smoothly.
The lab investigates the roles of histone modifying enzymes in biology and disease. The successful candidate will bring significant experience in recombinant protein purification and a broad foundation in biochemical and molecular biology techniques. In addition to conducting independent and collaborative research, this individual will assist with laboratory operations, including ordering and inventorying supplies, maintaining lab organization, and training and mentoring undergraduate students.

This position is available immediately. The work schedule is Monday-Friday and is flexible.

Essential Functions:
60% Biochemical and Molecular Biology Research: Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments related to the expression, purification, and characterization of recombinant proteins. Prepare plasmid DNA constructs, grow and harvest bacterial cultures, and conduct biochemical analyses including enzyme activity assays, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, and biophysical characterization. Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data. Maintain accurate and thorough research records. Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications. Participate in lab group meetings and attend relevant seminars and discussion groups on campus.

35% Laboratory Operations Support: Assist with the day-to-day operations of the laboratory, including ordering and receiving supplies and reagents, maintaining and updating inventories and databases, and helping ensure overall lab organization and cleanliness. Help coordinate equipment maintenance and service. Train and mentor undergraduate students in laboratory techniques and safety protocols. Assist in establishing and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs) for laboratory workflows.

5% Other: Other duties as assigned by the supervisor to support lab operations and research goals.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, flexible

Required Qualifications: Master's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, chemistry, or a closely related field with 2-3 years of post-degree research experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression and purification (e.g., affinity chromatography, ion exchange, size exclusion chromatography).
- Proficiency in standard molecular biology techniques such as molecular cloning, bacterial cell culture, SDS-PAGE, and Western blotting.
- Experience with data collection and analysis using techniques such as chromatography, electrophoresis, and/or spectroscopy.
- Strong organizational and record-keeping skills, including experience maintaining laboratory inventories and databases.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in both verbal and written formats.
- Familiarity with standard practices for laboratory safety.
- Proficiency with basic computer programs such as word processing, spreadsheets, and data analysis software.
- Previous experience in a supervisory or mentoring role, particularly with undergraduate students.
- Experience with laboratory management tasks such as ordering supplies, maintaining inventories, and general lab organization.

Preferred Qualifications:
- PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline.
- Experience with vendor coordination, equipment maintenance scheduling, and/or budget tracking.
- Familiarity with one or more of the following: enzyme kinetics and biochemical assays, mammalian cell culture, next generation sequencing (NGS), protein structure/function analysis, or mass spectrometry.
- Experience preparing research documentation such as manuscripts, grant applications, or regulatory submissions.
- Proficiency in statistical analysis and/or coding (e.g., Python, R) for data analysis.

BMBB:

The department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics is committed to understanding the molecular mechanisms of metabolic diseases and cancer; developing novel strategies in biocatalysis and biotechnology; and advancing knowledge through structural biology and molecular biophysics. We organize ourselves into research divisions with emphases on Chemical and Structural Biology, Metabolic and Systems Biology, Molecular Biology and Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology. We are housed in new buildings with state-of-the-art research and support facilities.

Pay Range: $60,000 - $70,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A 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

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.

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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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