Researcher 4 - Infectious Disease and International Medicine

Job Duties & Responsibilities 70% – Research. Primary duties include studies of virus-host interactions using HIV‑1 as a model system. Projects involve analyzing HIV‑1 interactions with neutralizing antibodies using viral assays, PCR amplification of HIV‑1 genes from infected individuals, and monitoring viral active and latent replication in primary cells. The successful candidate will develop new applications of viral assays, create methods to analyze libraries of HIV‑1 Env mutants at high depth, and construct approaches to study HIV‑1 reservoirs in people living with HIV‑1. Work will be conducted in BSL2/BSL2+BSL3 environments using viral reporter systems, RNA‑seq, transcriptomic analysis, next‑generation sequencing, sorting infected cells by flow cytometry, and various molecular biology techniques for cloning or gene modification. Collaboration with lab members, participation in lab meetings, and supervision of undergraduate students are also required. 30% – Data Analysis, Presentations, and Manuscript Preparation. Analyze experimental results using computer programs for viral neutralization assays, antibody binding, and flow cytometry data (FlowJo, Cyflogic). Develop research directions, prepare figures and manuscripts, review literature, collaborate with other groups, and prepare data for presentations. Required Qualifications (Must be documented in all application materials) BS/BA in biology, microbiology, or a related field and 4 years of related experience, or a master’s degree and 2 years of related experience. Strong critical thinking skills and ability to develop independent new directions in the lab. Experience and demonstrated skills in next‑generation sequencing technology and analysis. Proficiency in viral neutralization assay. Excellent communication and organization skills with exemplary scientific record‑keeping. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Ability to work independently, solve problems, work under pressure, and manage multiple tasks. Experience and skills in molecular biology, including cloning, site‑directed mutagenesis, PCR, and DNA sequencing analysis. Demonstrated experience in immunological methods such as ELISA, antibody characterization, and western blot. Experience and ability to analyze scientific data, present research results, and prepare manuscripts for publication. Enthusiastic to work in a new lab studying virus-host interactions; proactive, open‑minded, creative, and willing to learn. Preferred Qualifications Advanced degree in biology, microbiology, or a related field. Experience working individually and in groups. Ability to carry out research protocols from written or oral instructions from lab director. Experience working with bacteria, human cells/tissues, and viruses, including HIV‑1, in a BL2+/BSL3 facility. High proficiency in tissue culture with different cell lines, isolation of RNA, and analysis of gene expression using microarrays or RNA‑seq, and isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from blood. Experience with flow cytometry techniques and multi‑parameter analysis. Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $50,000‑56,000 depending on education/qualifications/experience. Time Appointment: 75%–100% appointment. Position Type: Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor‑Represented Staff. 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 Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area Diversity Statement 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Minnesota