Rsch Pro 1-Biochemistry

Looking for a confident and qualified candidate for a researcher position in the Prof. Elias Lab. The successful candidate will actively participate in maintaining the Lab and will be responsible for independently conducting experiments to further the Lab research projects. Activities focus on microbiological and biochemical experiments to unravel microbial communication. Activities will involve cultures, microbiological, biochemical and chemical assays to characterize the response of cultures to quorum sensing interference approaches. Key experiments will include protein purification and evaluation of their effects on microbes, including lab bioreactor in field experiments.

Essential Duties:
65% Peptide synthesis and purification, peptide-protein binding assays

Perform peptide synthesis, analytical characterization and purification for our laboratory and occasionally other laboratories or groups on campus. Help monitor and train undergraduate student workers in peptide synthesis. Perform peptide-protein binding assays using various detection methods, including fluorescence polarization, fluorescence lifetime, and/or spectro-optical calorimetry.

20% Kinase assay and technology development experimental support

Perform a variety of molecular and biochemical analyses on human samples or cultured cell line specimens, including kinase assays, proteomics sample preparation, Western blotting, cellular imaging, and/or mass spectrometry. Grow and maintain stable cell cultures and lines as needed. Prepare media, enzymes, and solutions under sterile conditions in small or large quantities.

10% Laboratory record keeping

Keep detailed records of all experiments and procedures in laboratory notebooks, databases, spreadsheets, and web-based applications.

5% Research-related knowledge building

Conduct background literature research and writing on relevant topics including current methods, reagents, and ethics.

Required:

BA/BS in Biochemistry or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years. Masters degree in Microbial Engineering is highly preferred.

Experience in biochemistry or microbiology is essential, and experience with quorum sensing enzymes, microbial bioreactor work.

Demonstrated ability to independently design and carry out research projects in a rigorous and timely fashion.

He/she will have a strong background in molecular biology (mutagenesis, sequencing analysis, etc.), protein production/purification, and protein characterization.

Pay Range: $20.26/hr; 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

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 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.

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