Research Professional 1-Preclinical Research (Department of Neuroscience)

The Lesne Laboratory in the Department of Neuroscience is seeking a Research Professional to join its team.

Total effort for the section below (60%)
- Colony management of genetically modified mice (including models of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias).
- Performance of various husbandry techniques including breeding procedures, microchip implantation, animal identification, tissue collection (tail snips, brain microdissection and harvesting), cardiac perfusions, and database management.
- Coordinate with project managers (graduate students, undergraduate students and researchers) in developing and maintaining breeding plans for various experimental studies.
- Cognitive/behavioral testing of mice using the Barnes maze, Y maze or Restaurant Row maze. This also includes data analysis using AnyMaze and exported data files for secondary analyses in Excel, JMP for statistics and/or MatLab.

Total effort for the section below (10%)
- Performance of laboratory techniques involved in genotyping genetically modified mice (i.e. DNA extraction, and PCR)
- Performance of brain tissue sectioning using a vibratome.
- Assist with general lab maintenance as needed including preparation of solutions, preparing glassware, and autoclaving lab supplies.

Total effort for the section below (30%)
- Performance of biochemical assays (SDS-PAGE, CN-PAGE, western blotting, dot blotting) and cell culture techniques.
- Performance of immunohistological assays (immunofluorescent labeling of brain tissue sections) and confocal imaging techniques. This also includes data analysis using the Imaris software package.

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required Qualifications:

• B.A./B.Sc. in Biological or Behavioral Sciences or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years.
• Must be able to work with genetically modified mice including identification procedures, sacrificing animals, and general husbandry.
• Experience with molecular biological techniques (e.g., DNA extraction and qPCR) and biochemical assays (e.g. Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and immunoprecipitation).
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google Suite and database management systems (Access or other).
• Self-motivated, ability to work independently and as a team by coordinating schedule and work assignments with other laboratory personnel. This position requires excellent attention to detail and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Completed coursework in Neuroscience or Neurobiology.
• Experience with murine husbandry practices and/or mouse behavioral testing.
• Experience in research lab setting.

The major research goal of our laboratory is to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms triggered by proteins abnormally aggregating in cerebral brain tissues during the course of neurodegenerative disorders, with a specific focus on Alzheimer's disease. Empowered by this new knowledge, we aim at developing therapeutic strategies to counter the action of these molecules in preclinical models of the disease. To learn more visit https://lesnelab.org/

Pay Range: $20-$22/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented 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
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

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.

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