Job Description

Working under the direction of Dr. Fekadu Kassie, the Lab Technician will be responsible for handling research projects focused on preclinical development of chemopreventive agents against lung cancer.  Specific projects include in vitro and in vivo studies to determine the chemopreventative/therapeutic activities of various naturally occurring and synthetic compounds, identify the mechanism of action and assess the safety/toxicity of the agents. 

The Lab Technician will be expected to interpret complex data and advise principal investigator and others on research techniques, procedures and experimental results; prepare manuscripts for publication and presentation at conferences and manage the day-to-day activities of the lab including ordering consumables required by the lab.  
  

Responsibilities:
(60%) Molecular/cell biology techniques including aseptic cell culture, treatment of cancer cells with anti-cancer drugs, cell viability assay, extraction of RNA/protein, running qRT-PCR and/or Western immunoblotting as well as flow cytometry-based analysis of cells and proteins.
(10%) Treatment of mice with anti-cancer drugs, necropsy and tumor count
(30%) General lab maintenance such as assistance (stock organization, ordering, data entry) and graphical representation of data using appropriate software (Excel, Prism).

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required Qualifications: 
•BA/BS or combination of related education and work experience to equal four years in molecular or cellular biology or related field.
•Experience in cell culture, Western immunoblotting, QRT-PCR, gene transfection/cloning, immunoprecipitation, RNA interference and DNA sequencing. 

The Masonic Cancer Center creates a collaborative research environment focused on the causes, prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer; applying that knowledge to improve quality of life for patients and survivors; and sharing its discoveries with other scientists, students, professionals, and the community. Founded in 1991, MCC became a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in 1998 and is now one of only 50 institutions in the United States to hold this designation, which is awarded only to institutions that make ongoing, significant advances in cancer research, treatment, and education. Many people choose to work at the University of Minnesota MCC because they believe in our mission and are excited by our vision for the future. We have a reputation as a great place to work with excellent leadership and a strong community that values diversity. The University of Minnesota provides a very competitive benefits package and access to many resources and professional development opportunities.

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 Regents Scholarship
• 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

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website 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-UOHR (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).