PACE Researcher

The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota; Austin (MN); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Mentoring and guidance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

The Hormel Institute at the University of Minnesota invites applicants to join the Post Baccalaureate Accelerated Career Experience (PACE), a one-year program designed to strengthen laboratory skills and prepare for graduate-level research.

Participants gain hands-on training in protein expression, purification, cell culture, data analysis and scientific communication, with mentoring, development planning and seminars, and a potential second year extension.

Qualifications

• Interest in strengthening laboratory skills and broadening knowledge in fundamental biomedical research.
• Preparation for graduate-level research and training.
• Commitment to contributing to a diverse biomedical research workforce.

Responsibilities

• Lab Research Training: protein expression, purification, and cell culture; data collection and analysis; record-keeping; report writing.
• Professional Development & Training: Ramp Up orientation, mentoring, seminars, and career planning; participation in program sessions and site-wide training.

Skills

Laboratory skills development

Biomedical research interest

Graduate school preparation

Job description

About The Job

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. To learn more about the PACE program and mentors please visit https://hi.umn.edu/pace. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

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. To learn more about the PACE program and mentors please visit https://hi.umn.edu/pace. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

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 data club, grad school preparation, scientific communication, poster creation and presentation, responsible research conduct, and 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 participant's 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, PACE Researcher may have vivarium-based research responsibilities/project.

Professional Development & Training - 25%

• Participate in a Ramp Up (orientation) dedicated to intentional lab matchups 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.

Flexible Work Profile

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorses a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.

This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile One.

Flexible Work Profile One, 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. The Hormel Institute management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.