Researcher 1- Integrative Biology and Physiology

at  University of Minnesota

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in relevant scientific fields (neuroscience, physiology, nutrition, psychology) or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years.
• Previous Laboratory experience
• Knowledge of the basic principles of biological science is required to assess observations, prepare specimens, run a variety of biological assays, interpret the results of standardized tests, etc.
• Prior experience with rodents. Sufficient knowledge of the physiology of rats and mice is necessary in order to induce anesthesia, assist with surgeries, and collect tissue and/or fluid samples.
• Sufficient knowledge of mathematics and statistics is required to analyze and interpret test results. Knowledge and skill sufficient to maintain and operate standard instruments (fluorescence microscopes, pH meters, etc).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Must possess or be able to readily obtain certification to perform animal studies and procedures.

The laboratory technician will conduct research on the behavioral, neural, and physiological basis of obesity. They will be involved in the daily operations of the laboratory, and after training, expected to independently perform a variety of standardized tests and routine procedures, all of which are covered by established methods, procedures, and techniques. The technician will learn to recognize and help solve problems that develop in the laboratory.

90% Primary Duties

• Conduct animal (rat and mouse) behavioral testing, including, but not limited to: metabolic phenotyping (i.e., energy expenditure), food intake and preference measurements, and cognitive and anxiety testing.
• Inject various compounds and solutions into experimental animals.
• Assist with surgery and perfusions on experimental animals.
• Collect tissue and fluid samples (e.g., body fat, brain tissue, blood) from experimental animals; store and analyze the tissue (e.g, ESLISA kits, PCR, immunohistochemistry, estrous classification).
• Prepare buffers, reagents, and other solutions and test for pH.
• Keep meticulously detailed records of all experiments and procedures in a laboratory notebook; perform statistical analyses of data obtained from experiments and render interpretations of the data.

10% General Responsibilities

• Keep the laboratory stocked, maintain inventories of supplies and order items as necessary.
• Properly handle hazardous materials and dispose of all waste materials in an appropriate manner. Maintain chemical inventories and read and maintain appropriate Material Data Sheets and safety files.
• Adjust, calibrate, and perform minor repairs on equipment used in the laboratory.
• Become familiar with the assigned literature, attend weekly lab meetings, participate in laboratory journal clubs, and report regularly on progress.

The Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology’s research centers on integrative systems biology of the heart and vasculature, including the close linkages among cardiovascular diseases and obesity, diabetes and metabolism at the whole animal level. The department is ideally positioned to bridge basic science discoveries to clinically relevant applications, spanning from academia to our neighbors in the biomedical industry.
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.
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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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90% Primary Duties

• Conduct animal (rat and mouse) behavioral testing, including, but not limited to: metabolic phenotyping (i.e., energy expenditure), food intake and preference measurements, and cognitive and anxiety testing.
• Inject various compounds and solutions into experimental animals.
• Assist with surgery and perfusions on experimental animals.
• Collect tissue and fluid samples (e.g., body fat, brain tissue, blood) from experimental animals; store and analyze the tissue (e.g, ESLISA kits, PCR, immunohistochemistry, estrous classification).
• Prepare buffers, reagents, and other solutions and test for pH.
• Keep meticulously detailed records of all experiments and procedures in a laboratory notebook; perform statistical analyses of data obtained from experiments and render interpretations of the data

10% General Responsibilities

• Keep the laboratory stocked, maintain inventories of supplies and order items as necessary.
• Properly handle hazardous materials and dispose of all waste materials in an appropriate manner. Maintain chemical inventories and read and maintain appropriate Material Data Sheets and safety files.
• Adjust, calibrate, and perform minor repairs on equipment used in the laboratory.
• Become familiar with the assigned literature, attend weekly lab meetings, participate in laboratory journal clubs, and report regularly on progress