Research Scientist

About the Job Working Title: Research Scientist 5 Job Code Title: Research Professional 5 - Biochemistry Job Code: 9791BC Location: Saint Paul, MN (100% In-Person) Schedule & Availability: Full-time, Monday-to-Friday with occasional weekend and evening hours. Lions Gift of Sight (LGS) seeks a motivated and skilled Research Scientist to join the Research and Development team, bridging bench research and clinical application to improve patient outcomes in ophthalmology. Ideal candidates are laboratory scientists with robust backgrounds in stem cell research and a passion for advancing eye health through translational science. Responsibilities 85% Research Activities and Project Management Lead translational research projects, including designing and conducting experiments, performing advanced statistical data analyses, contributing to progress reports, and preparing manuscripts for peer‑reviewed publication. Assist LGS R&D Director and Medical Director to develop and document IRB, IACUC, and IBC study protocols. Support the submission of internal and external funding applications and grant proposals. Disseminate research findings through presentations at scientific conferences, departmental meetings, and university‑wide events. 5% General Laboratory Maintenance Perform rotations of essential laboratory maintenance tasks, including managing research supply inventories and performing routine instrument and surgical instrument care. Maintain a safe and sterile working environment and uphold safety and operational standards. Qualifications Required Qualifications: PhD in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, stem cell biology, or a related life science field, with a minimum of 3 years of lab experience. Hands‑on experience working with iPSC and small animals (mice, rats, and/or rabbits). Proficiency in cellular and molecular biology techniques, including FACS, ELISA, qRT‑PCR, primary cell culture, immunostaining, and fluorescence microscopy. Excellent verbal and written communication skills demonstrated through symposium presentations, manuscript authorship, and grant writing. Preferred Qualifications: Expertise in optimizing ophthalmic disease models in animals and primary cell culture systems. Experience in RNAseq and gene expression profiling studies. Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and/or Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Experience in preparing and submitting IRB and IACUC protocols. Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $90K – $95K, depending on education, qualifications, and experience. Time Appointment: 100% Appointment Position Type: Faculty and P&A 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 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 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 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr