Research Professional 2 - Department of Microbiology and Immunology

The Gale Lab in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Minnesota is seeking a researcher with virology and molecular biology experience to work as part of a dynamic team on infectious disease projects centered on virus identification and innate immunity to virus infection. The Research Professional 2 will support laboratory research projects directed by Drs. Linhui Hao and Jenny Go. The position requires the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with principal investigators, staff scientists, and trainees.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
40% - Conduct Virology and Cell Culture Research
* Perform mammalian tissue culture, cell maintenance, and cell-based assays.
* Propagate, quantify, and characterize viruses using standard virology techniques.
* Conduct molecular biology assays including nucleic acid extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR, cloning, and sequencing library preparation.
40% - Conduct Advanced Infectious Disease and Translational Research
* Perform research involving infectious agents under BSL-2, BSL-2+, and, as trained and authorized, BSL-3 laboratory conditions.
* Support studies involving viral pathogenesis, host-pathogen interactions, and infectious disease models.
* Conduct viral metagenomics, next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays, including sample processing and library preparation.
* Participate in animal studies, including animal handling, sample collection, and experimental procedures in accordance with approved IACUC protocols.
10% - Laboratory Operations and Compliance
* Ensure compliance with biosafety, institutional, and regulatory requirements.
* Assist with laboratory organization, training of students and staff, and maintenance of laboratory records and standard operating procedures.
* Participate in laboratory meetings and collaborative activities.
10% - Documentation, Reporting, and Administrative Activities
* Maintain detailed experimental records and laboratory notebooks.
This position may require work with laboratory animals and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for animal care and handling.
Occasional lifting of laboratory supplies up to 25 pounds may be required.

Minimum Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Virology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
* Minimum of two (2)+ years of relevant research experience in an academic, government, or industry laboratory setting (or an equivalent combination of education and experience
* Or a combination of education and work experience to equal at least six years
* Experience with mammalian tissue culture and basic molecular biology techniques.
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Preferred Qualifications
* Master's degree in Microbiology, Virology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
* Experience working in BSL-2, BSL-2+, or BSL-3 laboratory environments.
* Experience with virology research, including viral propagation, viral quantification, and infectious disease studies.
* Experience with animal research, including mouse handling, sample collection, and protocol execution.
* Experience with viral metagenomics, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and sequencing library preparation.

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology (DMI) is a basic science department in the University of Minnesota (UMN) School of Medicine. Our faculty focus on the study of microorganism and host interactions, and engage in translational research to build and evaluate preclinical and clinical applications of research discoveries aimed at mitigating disease. The department seeks to build on our rich history as we pursue transformational research. DMI faculty have a strong focus on immunology, virology, bacteriology, and fungal biology and they include research and training activities encompassing studies of microbial physiology and genetics, the immune response to infection based around a central theme of interrogating the systems biology of infection, immunity, and diseases.

Pay Range: $26.32 to $28.10; 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.