Position Overview

This is an entry-level position for a laboratory researcher to join the Weingarden lab at the University of Minnesota. The individual in this position will assist with specific procedures, such as tissue processing and staining for flow cytometry, in vitro mammalian cell culture, and aerobic and anaerobic bacterial culture. They will also help with animal experiments (mice) and manage the mouse colony, along with recruitment of patients for clinical studies.

The Weingarden lab studies interactions between the gut immune system, food, and the gut microbiota, particularly within the context of celiac disease. Celiac disease is an abnormal immune response to gliadin proteins in wheat, barley, and rye. The only treatment currently available is to remove all gliadin from the diet via life-long restriction to a gluten-free diet. We are trying to understand how T cells in the intestine are altered in patients with celiac disease compared to healthy individuals and how intestinal bacteria affect these T cells. We work with patient samples and with mouse models to investigate these interactions, with the ultimate goal of developing new therapeutics for celiac disease.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual who is interested in developing a broad range of laboratory skills with some degree of independence and is comfortable assisting with patient recruitment.

Over time, the individual will learn different laboratory techniques, such as PCR, in vitro culturing of immune cells and bacteria, tissue sample processing for flow cytometry, and mouse handling techniques (oral gavage, intravenous and subcutaneous injections, drawing blood).

Ideally, this position will start working sometime after August 1, 2024, however, there is some flexibility around the start date.

Duties and Responsibilities

70% Assistance with laboratory experiments and procedures
* Prepare media and reagents
* Maintain mouse colonies and perform basic procedures on mice
* Extract cells and microbial DNA from biospecimens
* Preparation of samples for flow cytometry
* Mammalian cell culture
* Aerobic and anaerobic bacterial culture
* Assist with organizing and maintaining a repository of biospecimen samples from clinical trials

15% Laboratory organization
* Manage the laboratory supply inventory
* Ensure the hoods and benches are cleaned in accordance with the lab protocols
* Maintain laboratory organization (e.g., organize supplies, eliminate clutter)
* Submission of samples to UMGC for sequencing

15% Patient recruitment
* Identify and contact potential patients for research studies
* Obtain informed consent from patients
* Transport patient samples from clinics/endoscopy suite to laboratory

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required Qualifications:

* Mammalian cell culture and/or animal experience
* B.S. or B.A. in Biological Sciences, Life Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or related disciplines, or a combination of related education and work experience equal to four years
* Laboratory experience in basic molecular techniques, e.g., DNA extraction, intrinsic to undergraduate classwork
* Ability to maintain and organized documentation of records of biospecimens and experimental work

Preferred Qualifications:
* Highly organized, methodical, disciplined, and efficient
* Able to manage and prioritize tasks
* Embraces teamwork and works effectively within a team environment
* Enthusiastic about science and its potential to make a difference for people
* Possesses effective interpersonal and communication skills
* Prior experience with rodent models

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also 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
• 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)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

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:

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).