PACE Researcher

Position & Department Overview 

The Hormel Institute Post Baccalaureate Accelerated Career Experience (PACE) is structured to equip participants for a research- focused biomedical doctoral degree upon program completion. Its principal objective is to elevate participants' research proficiencies and academic competitiveness, addressing the urgent call for diverse investigators in both fundamental and translational research. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position. To learn more about the PACE and program mentors please visit https://hi.umn.edu/pace.

Candidates should demonstrate an interest in strengthening their laboratory skills, broadening their knowledge in fundamental biomedical research, and preparing for graduate-level research and training.

Program Features:

• Comprehensive research experience in The Hormel Institute's cutting edge research lab for one year, with a potential opportunity to extend for a second year. 
• Professional development in a variety of topics & formats including journal club, grad school preparation, scientific communication, poster creation and presentation, responsible conduct of research, internal and external seminars.
• Immersive orientation program (Ramp Up) in which participants will learn from mentors and complete assessments to ensure seamless integration into the lab based experience. 
• Intentional student and mentor pairing based on research and career interests.
• Customized Individual Development Plan crafted for each participants success.

Program Benefits:

• Competitive salary with full eligibility for The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota’s comprehensive benefits package, including affordable medical coverage and paid time off.
• Mentoring and guidance to foster a seamless transition into a research-based graduate program.
• Program designed to build a sense of community within a cohort for support with participants and mentors.
• Tailored seminars and professional development to expand each student's scientific area of focus and its correlation to biomedical research.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

Lab Research Training - 75%

• Perform laboratory experiments that include protein expression, purification, and cell culture work as well as other relevant methodologies applicable to biomedical research. 
• Preparation of buffers and solutions following standard lab protocols. 
• Perform and modify documented protocols and assays.
• Maintain laboratory records and compile data on experiments and assays.
• Interpret and report on experimental results.
• Perform statistical analysis of test results and prepare written reports on work performed.
• Participate in lab meetings.
• Clean, sanitize and maintain laboratory bench space and equipment such as autoclaving glassware.
• Biohazard waste utilization by autoclaving.
• Maintain lab supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level while placing and  expediting orders for supplies and verifying receipt of supplies. 
• Organize and maintain up-to-date laboratory safety protocols.  
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations in conjunction with the laboratory.
• Keep track of lab personnel training records.
• Pending lab placement, researcher may have vivarium based research responsibilities/project. 

Professional Development & Training - 25%

• Participate in a Ramp-Up (orientation) dedicated to intentional lab match-ups and learning.
• Collaborate with mentors and peers in a research setting. 
• Engage in targeted training sessions to acquire necessary skills and knowledge, empowering participants to achieve success.
• Attend and actively participate in PACE specific program sessions.
• Engage with site-wide professional development, including data club, journal club, scientific seminars, and talks by external speakers.
• Conduct planning sessions to set goals and reflect on progress.
• Document reflections and learning outcomes to track professional growth.
• Attend seminars focused on learning, sharing scientific communication, and responsible conduct of research.
• Engage in discussions and activities to enhance understanding and application of seminar topics.

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Successful completion of baccalaureate degree in a biomedically relevant field within 36 months of application.
• GPA of 3.0 or greater. 
• 1 year of research experience. 
• Demonstrated interest in research related career.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to leadership and service

Work Profile

Profile 1, Office Lab-Based - is expected to work primarily on-site in the office/lab. Only occasionally and inconsistently working remotely. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota. Management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

Apply By Submitting:

• Current Resume or CV
• Undergraduate Transcripts
• Two letters of recommendation, recommendation letters should be uploaded as an attachment on the applicant's UMN job portal along with the applicant's other materials. However, if a recommender prefers to submit them separately, they may be emailed to hi-education@umn.edu
• Personal Statement: Describe your academic and career goals, interest in biomedical research, any research experience, if applicable, and how you will benefit from the PACE program (1 page maximum)

** Incomplete applications may not be considered. Please ensure you have uploaded all requested materials listed above. We highly recommend providing your references with enough time to write a letter, prior to the deadline. **

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please go to

https://hr.myu.umn.edu/jobs/ext/370428

To request an accommodation during the application process, please email employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647)