Researcher 2 - Biochemistry

Job description:
How lipids and lipoproteins contribute to vascular and brain aging, and Alzheimer's disease (AD) is unclear. We have a Researcher 2 position immediately available in the lab of Danni Li (Department of Lab Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota) to investigate lipids and lipoproteins in two important AD research projects funded by the National Institute on Aging.
We will conduct a large-scale analysis of already-collected blood samples from older adults to examine plasma components known as lipoproteins. This study will uncover previously unknown associations of the proteins and lipids found within plasma lipoproteins with AD development and progression, allowing us to identify new AD biomarkers related to the vascular system for further strategy development to prevent or slow the progression of AD or AD-related dementias. Inheritance of the apolipoprotein (APO) E4 gene is the most potent genetic risk factor identified to date for late-onset AD. We will determine the impact of mitochondrial lipidomic dynamics and its interaction with different APOE isoforms on brain aging and AD progression. We expect this person will be trained on how to use different wet lab techniques including but not limited to liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Over time, this person is expected to develop independence in carry out own projects. This person will be part of team that develop assays to characterize lipids and lipoproteins.

Responsibilities

• 80% Research Activities
  • Assist in designing research projects; independently plan and perform complex, multi-step experimental analyses; record all experimental protocols and data; organize and interpret experimental results.
  • Perform experiments and analyze experimental samples. Generate sample/control analysis reports. Responsible for generating, recording, and analyzing data.
  • Perform everyday tasks such as laboratory cleanup (using aseptic technique), replenishing supplies as needed, remove hazardous and chemical waste.
  • Organize and set up equipment for research projects.
• 20% Administrative Lab Tasks
  • Manage lab inventory and day to day orders
  • Maintain biosafety procedures and administrative records, laboratory paperwork
  • Assist with writing institutional protocols and manuscripts

Comp range: $24.50 - 30.00/hr

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.
Required Qualifications:
* BS/BA in chemistry or a biochemistry and one year of relevant experience or a combination of education and experience to equal five years.
* Experience managing datasets and preparing analysis
* Excellent organization and attention to detail.
* Excellent communication skills - verbal and written.

Preferred Qualifications:
* Research experience in a wet lab
* Experience with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry

• 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

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 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), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).