Researcher - Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery

University of Minnesota; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Paid holidays

Generous time off

Tuition support

Job summary

University of Minnesota in Saint Paul seeks a basic science and clinical outcomes researcher to support clinical outcomes research in the Cardiothoracic Surgery Division. The role involves handling tissue/cell cultures, molecular biology techniques, and data analysis, contributing to SOPs, and maintaining detailed experimental records.

The position requires a Bachelor's in natural science with laboratory experience; lifting 50 lbs and PPE use are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in natural science with at least two years related experience in animal sciences, biological sciences, biomedical engineering or related health sciences, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 1 year of experience with basic laboratory assays and molecular biology techniques.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs, and sit/stand for long periods.
• Must be able to wear appropriate PPE.

Responsibilities

• Support clinical outcomes research in the Cardiothoracic Surgery Division working with databases related to cardiac surgery procedures (50%).
• Perform experiments related to chronic myocardial ischemia, including tissue/cell culture, proteomic analysis, and molecular biology techniques.
• Perform data analysis of molecular biology assays and imaging data; maintain organized data spreadsheets in Excel.
• Contribute to scientific writing and presentations; present data at weekly lab meetings and assist in manuscript/grant preparation.

Skills

Problem solving

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in natural science

Tools

Microsoft Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

About the Job

You will work as a basic science and clinical outcomes researcher under the direction of Rosemary Kelly, MD, Professor in the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery. This is a continuing, 12-month appointment.

Responsibilities

• Work in the Cardiothoracic Surgery Division to support clinical outcomes research working with databases related to cardiac surgery procedures. 50%
• Perform Experiments Related to Chronic Myocardial Ischemia: 30%
  • Handle tissue and cell cultures related to mitochondrial, fibrosis, inflammation, and stem cell studies
  • Perform proteomic analysis and molecular biology techniques
  • Maintain the records and laboratory work areas and ensures that areas are clean and adequately stocked
  • Calibrate equipment and troubleshoot equipment properly
  • Initiate and revise lab standard operating procedures (SOPs) as needed
  • Maintain detailed notes of experimental procedures, samples, and methods
• Data analysis: 10%
  • Perform analysis of molecular biology assays
  • Perform quantitative analysis of histological, fluorescent microscopy, electron microscopy, and MRI data
  • Maintain organized spreadsheets of all data using Microsoft Excel
• Scientific writing and presentation: 10%
  • Interpret and summarize data in reports
  • Present data in Powerpoint or other formats at weekly lab meetings
  • Attend regular group meetings and share data
  • Assist in writing and preparation of scientific manuscripts and grants

Requirements

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

• Bachelor's degree in a natural science with at least two years of related experience in the animal sciences, biological sciences, biomedical engineering or related health sciences, or a combination of education and work experience to equal at least six years
• At least 1 year of experience with basic laboratory assays and molecular biology techniques
• Must be able to lift 50lbs by oneself, must be able to sit and stand for long periods
• Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment
• Problem solving skills, strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and ability to work as a team member in a lab setting

About the Department

Committed to innovation and diversity, the Medical School educates physicians, scientists, and health professionals; generates knowledge and treatments; and cares for patients and communities with compassion and respect. We value excellence, inclusiveness, collaboration, and discovery.

To learn more about the Department of Surgery, please visit https://med.umn.edu/surgery

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $24.13-$30; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University 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 Tuition Benefit Program
• 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

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Diversity

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

Employment Requirements

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.

About University of Minnesota

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 Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.