Job Description
Job ID: 362393
About the Job Dr Fang Li in the
Department of Pharmacology is looking for a Researcher 3 to join his team.
Professor Li is a leading researcher in the
coronavirus entry field, having determined many structures of coronavirus spike proteins and discovered the molecular events that lead to
coronavirus entry into host cells. His research has been one of the major driving forces behind what we now know about receptor recognition
and cell entry of coronaviruses. Moreover, he has developed structure-based strategies for vaccine design and drug development. His research
provides foundational knowledge for the field of coronaviruses.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, Professor Li's research
has elucidated how the pandemic virus infects cells while evading immunity. He has also been deciphering the evolution of COVID-19 variants.
His research has laid foundations for vaccine and therapeutic developments.
Currently, Professor Li and his team are working on the
development of innovative therapeutics to combat COVID-19, as well as improving the drug discovery process. In the long term, he aims to
apply the scientific discoveries he has made in the field of coronaviruses to the treatment of other viral infections and human
diseases.
Position Responsibilities:
70% - Research
* Independently perform and analyze results of complex molecular biology
and protein biochemistry experiments to study virus entry into host cells and potential therapeutics against emerging viruses. Incumbent
will receive limited supervision, so will need to work independently.
* Assists in projects related to NIH funded grants via molecular
cloning, cell culture and protein purification.
* Along with the PI, independently design research projects while planning and performing
complex, multi-step experiments; recording all experimental protocols and data; organizing and interpreting experimental results.
30%
Lab Operations
* Assist with various duties related to the functioning of the laboratory including but not limited to ordering and
maintaining supplies and equipment.
Qualifications Required Qualifications:
* BA/BS degree in one of the
biology- or health-related fields (e.g., molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or food technology) and at least two (2) year of
experience in the following areas: molecular cloning and protein purification; or a combination of related education and experience to equal
six (6) years.
* Excellent oral and written communication skills
* Must demonstrate the ability to work independently and think
critically about their research
* Excellent organizational skills, enthusiasm, creativity and motivation to learn
Preferred
Qualifications:
* Master's degree in one of the biology or health-related fields (e.g., molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or
food technology) with experience in the following areas: molecular cloning and protein purification.
* Peer reviewed publications
(particularly first-authored publications) are preferred.
About the Department The Department of Pharmacology
at the University of Minnesota is one of six basic science departments in the
Medical
School . The well-funded research programs of our
primary faculty members focus on understanding and developing better treatments for
cancer, addiction and the opioid crisis, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, and metabolic syndrome. We also offer an
undergraduate
Pharmacology
Minor , oversee the
Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Graduate Program (MPaT) , teach fundamental principles of
pharmacology to students in professional degree programs (MD, DDS, and MD/PhD), and provide individualized training experiences for our
strong community of
postdoctoral
scholars . Our past trainees are now applying their skills to impactful careers in academia, medicine, industry, government,
law, and regulatory oversight. We are proud of our role in preparing the next generation of scientists for rewarding careers in the health
sciences and related professions, and for the various other ways we give back to our
community.
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 employ@umn.edu or call (612)
624-8647.
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), Best Employer for Diversity (2019,
2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).
Job Tags
Holiday work, Full time, Traineeship, Flexible hours,