Research Professional 5

The Liu Lab focuses on understanding the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying human diseases and identifying targetable signaling pathways to drive advancements in cancer therapies. We are seeking a highly motivated Researcher 5 with a strong background in cancer research and expertise in cell biology and mouse model systems. The Researcher 5 will lead and manage multiple innovative research projects centered on TXNIP (Thioredoxin-Interacting Protein), a key regulator of cellular metabolism, oxidative stress, and tumorigenesis. These projects include developing advanced in vivo models, conducting in vitro genetic and pharmacological screens to identify regulators of TXNIP expression and function, and characterizing TXNIP-interacting partners and downstream target genes. Research efforts will involve working with mammalian cell culture, animal models, and clinical specimens. Technical responsibilities include cellular and molecular biology assays, immunohistochemistry and gene expression analysis, flow cytometry and flow sorting, omics studies (transcriptomics and proteomics), microscopy and imaging techniques, drug screening and testing, and orthotopic transplantation tumor models.

The candidate will work under general supervision while collaborating closely with the principal investigator to achieve research objectives. The Liu Lab offers an innovative and collaborative environment, providing ample resources and mentorship to support professional development and scientific excellence. The successful candidate will be self-motivated, possess excellent interpersonal skills, and demonstrate the ability to manage multiple and shifting priorities and deadlines. In-depth research expertise is essential to solve complex problems, optimize experimental approaches, and recommend best practices, all of which are critical to success in this role.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

Research/Project Management - 75%

* Design, implement and evaluate multifaceted research projects using state-of-the-art technological and scientific developments.
* Assist in the development of short- and long-range lab goals, scientific techniques, and clinical research protocols. Assess needs, evaluate feasibility, and provide input to facilitate implementation.
* Conducts research investigations from experimental design and reagent preparation to interpretation of experimental results.
* Responsible for analysis of data images to derive parameters which can be compared between samples.
* Collect the parameters and prepare them for analysis in the form of graphs.
* Consult and participate with other researchers within the lab and other outside units.
* Mentor and train undergraduate students, volunteers, and interns.
* Provide customized and knowledgeable guidance, complex problem solving and information to researchers.
* Conduct independent literature searches to identify emerging tools, analytical methods, data collection systems and software needed to support research projects.
* Analyze and present data as graphs and tables using appropriate software to explain findings to investigators and for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
* Maintain records on lab arrangements, meeting discussions and other required documentation.

Scientific writing - 15%

* Generate figures and visual content for manuscripts and grant proposals.
* Draft and edit manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed biomedical journals.
* Prepare research proposals for internal and external funding applications.

Research training and career development - 5%

* Expand expertise in research techniques relevant to the lab's objectives through interactions with the PI, lab personnel, workshops, courses, and seminars.
* Participate in national and international research meetings and other professional development opportunities.

Lab management and supervision - 5%

* Support the PI and lab members in maintaining a safe, clean, and efficient laboratory environment.
* Assist with laboratory logistics, including receiving, ordering, and inventory management as needed.
* Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the lab.
* Independently manage administrative tasks with minimal guidance.
* Assist in supervising and training new lab members and research interns.

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorses a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.

This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile One.
Flexible Work Profile One is expected to work primarily on-site. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, MN. The Hormel Institute management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

Required Qualifications

* Advanced degree with one or more years of research training.
* Experience in cell and molecular biology, cell culture techniques, and animal models.
* Excellent writing and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

* A Ph.D. or equivalent degree in cancer biology, cell biology, or a related field
* Minimum of 3 years of postdoctoral research experience and a demonstrated record of impactful publications and/or success in securing research funding.
* Proven ability to independently manage research projects with minimal oversight from the principal investigator.
* Expertise in omics data analysis (e.g., transcriptomic and proteomic datasets) is highly desirable.

The Hormel Institute is an independent biomedical research institution within the University of Minnesota's Research and Innovation Office. Established in 1942, our mission is to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences with applications in medicine and agriculture, specifically by understanding, treating, and controlling cancer and other chronic diseases. The Hormel Institute serves as a center of technical and educational expertise for the benefit of the local community, the State of Minnesota, and beyond. We are located in the uniquely diverse rural community of Austin, MN, conveniently only 35 miles from Rochester, MN, and 100 miles (1.5 hours) south of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The Hormel Institute is committed to fostering a work environment that promotes inclusive excellence, supportive employee practices, and encourages diversity of thought that drives innovation and creativity in our science.

Pay Range: $64,356.00; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-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

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 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).