Research Jobs at University of Minnesota with Visa Sponsorship

POSITION SUMMARY / PRIMARY PURPOSE OF POSITION:

The Jain Lab (jain-lab.org) is seeking an experienced Research Professional 5 to serve as a key contributor to both the scientific mission and the operational needs of a growing biochemistry laboratory. The successful candidate will bring a strong foundation in protein biochemistry, cell biology, and genomic approaches, along with a demonstrated ability to keep a research environment organized and running effectively. Our lab investigates how histone post-translational modifications regulate transcription and associated processes, with relevance to both basic biology and disease.

This position is available immediately. The work schedule is Monday–Friday and is flexible.

PRINCIPAL POSITION FUNCTIONS:

• 60% Biochemical and Molecular Biology Research: Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments investigating the regulatory roles of histone post-translational modifications and histone PTM-interacting proteins in transcription and associated processes, both in vivo and in vitro. Express, purify, and characterize recombinant proteins. Prepare plasmid DNA constructs, grow and harvest bacterial and mammalian cell cultures, and conduct biochemical and genomic analyses. Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data. Maintain accurate and thorough research records.

• 25% Laboratory Operations: Manage day-to-day laboratory operations, including ordering and receiving supplies and reagents, maintaining and updating inventories and databases, and ensuring overall lab organization and cleanliness. Coordinate equipment maintenance and service. Train and mentor undergraduate students in laboratory techniques and safety protocols. Establish and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for laboratory workflows.

• 10% Research Documentation: Work with the PI to plan and draft extramural research proposals and manuscripts reporting study results. Contribute to the preparation of presentations and other research communications.

• 5% Seminars and Other: Participate in lab group meetings, journal clubs, and relevant on-campus seminars and discussion groups. Other duties as assigned by the supervisor to support lab operations and research goals.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, COMPETENCIES, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, genomics, or a closely related field, with at least 4 years of post-degree research experience.

• Hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression and purification, and proficiency in core molecular biology techniques (e.g., molecular cloning, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting).

• Experience with mammalian cell culture and standard genomic approaches such as RNA-seq and/or ChIP-qPCR/seq.

• Strong organizational skills with experience in laboratory operations, including ordering supplies, maintaining inventories, and general lab upkeep.

• Previous experience mentoring or supervising trainees, particularly undergraduate students.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

• Familiarity with standard laboratory safety practices.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS, COMPETENCIES, AND EXPERIENCE:

• PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline.

• Research experience in histone post-translational modifications, chromatin biology, or gene regulation.

• A strong publication record demonstrating independent research contributions.

• Experience with vendor coordination, equipment maintenance scheduling, and/or budget tracking.

• Familiarity with one or more of the following: enzyme kinetics and biochemical assays, biophysical protein-protein interaction techniques, fluorescence microscopy, next generation sequencing (NGS), protein structure/function analysis, or mass spectrometry.

• Experience preparing research documentation such as manuscripts, grant applications, or regulatory submissions.

• Proficiency in statistical analysis and/or coding (e.g., Python, R) for data analysis.

• A willingness to learn and expand skillset and research interests.

WORK SCHEDULE: Monday–Friday, flexible

SALARY RANGE: $60,000–$70,000

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

Application materials must include a resume/CV, a cover letter, and the contact information for 2–3 professional/academic references. The cover letter should describe previous research experience, relevant expertise in protein biochemistry and/or chromatin biology, any experience with laboratory operations, and how this position fits into your long-term career goals.

BMBB:

The department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics is committed to understanding the molecular mechanisms of metabolic diseases and cancer; developing novel strategies in biocatalysis and biotechnology; and advancing knowledge through structural biology and molecular biophysics. We organize ourselves into research divisions with emphases on Chemical and Structural Biology, Metabolic and Systems Biology, Molecular Biology and Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology. We are housed in new buildings with state-of-the-art research and support facilities.

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).