Rsch Pro 2-Genetics/Cell Bio

The goal of the Gill Lab at the University of Minnesota is to understand the molecular mechanisms that underpin the basic biology of development and aging in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. The lab employs various genetic and chemical interventions to study their impact on the aging process. We have also recently developed a 96-well microplate-based assay for screening compounds that uses a machine learning approach to assess survival. We are collaborating with other researchers to adapt this technique for high-throughput screening of compounds against other worm phenotypes.
The Researcher 1 will work with other lab members to characterize the effects of various genetic manipulations and chemical interventions on worm lifespan and heat stress resistance. In addition, the successful candidate will assist in optimization and validation of the machine-learning assay in other worm phenotypes.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities
50% Strain Maintenance & Advanced Life History Analysis
Maintain, clear, and catalog C. elegans strains, execute complex genetic crosses, and independently design and execute experiments characterizing life history traits, including stress resistance, fecundity, and lifespan kinetics.

Perform statistical analysis and data visualization on physiological and lifespan datasets.

20% Implementation, Optimization & Expansion of Machine-Learning Assays
Execute compound screens evaluating heat stress resistance and compound toxicity.

Actively contribute to the technical optimization, troubleshooting, and validation of machine-learning-based assays.

Collaborate with internal lab members and external partners to adapt and expand high-throughput machine-learning screening pipelines to novel worm phenotypes.

10% Molecular Biology & Construct Engineering
Utilize PCR, gel electrophoresis, and sequencing validation for genotyping nematode strains.

Design and execute molecular cloning protocols to generate novel genetic constructs for introduction into C. elegans.

10% Data Management & Scientific Communication
Maintain detailed, rigorous, and organized documentation of all raw data, code, and experimental protocols in electronic lab notebooks, shared databases, and lab applications.

Assist in preparing data summaries, reports, figures, and protocols for research grants, collaborator updates, and scientific publications.

10% Laboratory Operations & Support
Oversee routine ordering, solution and media preparation, equipment maintenance, and general laboratory organization under the guidance of the Lab Manager.

Assist with training and orienting undergraduate students or lower-level technicians on basic laboratory techniques and C. elegans handling.

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required Qualifications:
BA/BS degree plus 2 yrs experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal six years.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience in genetics, molecular biology, computational biology and or coding would be advantageous.

Pay Range: $25/hr; 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.

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 jobcentr@umn.edu.

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 Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.