The Department of Microbiology and Immunology seeks a scientist (Researcher 6) to join the Gale lab. The Gale lab wants to understand how viral and host factors impact innate and adaptive immune defenses to determine the outcome of virus infection. To replicate and spread efficiently, many viruses encode factors that direct the suppression of innate immunity in the host cell. Our studies are focused on (i) defining the pattern recognition receptor (PRR) pathways and regulatory features of these pathways by which cells induce innate immunity, (ii) defining the viral strategies used to disarm or evade innate immune processes in infected cells and tissues, and (iii) determining how the processes of virus and host control of innate immune defenses regulate the outcome of virus infection. The significance of this work to human and animal health is that we will gain a detailed understanding of the molecular processes by which viral pathogens trigger and control immunity to infection, thus allowing us to define new antiviral targets and vaccine strategies for the development of specific and effective immunotherapies to control virus infection.

Responsibilities:

80% Conduct research projects

Performs experiments with various viruses and infect mice in a BSL2, BSL2 plus and BSL3 environments.
Process tissue for flow cytometric analysis, single cell RNA sequencing, microarray analysis, western blotting and other techniques needed for the research projects.
Assist in the growth and maintenance of viruses used for laboratory projects and documentation of freezer stocks.
Help to set up, operate, and maintain a Next Generation Sequencing robot that will be used to discover novel sequences of interest.
Prepare research for presentations and publications.
Assist in grant writing.
10% Research Management and Dissemination

Attend, participate or present at laboratory meetings, seminars and conferences as
needed.
Coordinate with collaborators from different universities and institutes about
research.
Provide research updates to collaborators and prepare reports to funding
agencies.
10% Laboratory Oversight

Assist in the writing of lab SOPS and amendments to IACUC and IBC protocols needed
for projects.
Assist in the training of new lab personnel. Instruct, direct, and supervise
junior lab personnel as assigned.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

Advanced degree in microbiology or related field with strong research and
publication record.
Excellent microbiology, molecular biology, and data analysis skills as well as
strong written and verbal communication skills.
Experience mentoring junior researchers
Demonstrated expertise in statistical methods in data analysis
Desired Qualifications:

Experience working in BSL2 and BSL2 plus laboratories and the safety
requirements needed to work in these areas.
About the Department
The Department of Microbiology and Immunology is a community of scholars committed to discovering and disseminating knowledge about the microbial world. Our interests and expertise encompass some of the most exciting areas of contemporary microbiology and immunology, ranging from the physiology and development of microorganisms, the molecular pathogenesis of infections, and fundamental aspects of immunity.

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 your 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 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
Please visit the Office of Human Resources website 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) 624-8647.