Required Qualifications

• Ph.D., DVM, MD or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications

• Candidates with experience in gene therapy and viral vectors, particularly Adeno-associated virus vectors;
• Candidates with the robust expertise in molecular biology and bioprocessing;
• Candidates interested in pre-clinical and translational research;
• Candidates demonstrated evidence of relevant training and peer-reviewed publications.

Position Summary

Aslanidi lab research is focused on bioengineering and application of Adeno-Associated virus (AAV) vectors for purpose of gene therapy and vaccine development. The research addresses several important drawbacks in AAV-based gene therapy such as vector efficiency, pre-existing and therapy-activated immunogenicity, scaled up vector production, assessment of efficacy in the large pre-clinical animal models, such as dogs, pigs, NHP. The goal of our research to ensure an advancement of gene therapy treatment for patients with genetic diseases and cancers.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in a self-sufficient and self-motivated manner;
• Conduct experiments on novel viral vectors design, development and validation;
• Development of novel protocol to improved viral vectors production;
• Conduct experiment on immune responses toward viral capsid and encoded transgene;
• Work with primary cells, blood from small and large animals, as well as humans;
• Carry out animal experiments, necropsy and tissue processing;
• Collect and analyze data to support the research claims;
• Write reports, manuscript and give scientific presentations;
• Comply with IBC, IACUC and IRB policies, maintain a safe and healthy laboratory environment.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

70% – Ongoing Research

• Design and implementation of hypothesis-driven research projects.

15% – Analysis & Review

• Analysis and review of generated data and reviewing previously reported scientific literature.

15% – Scientific writing and presentation

The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) 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 OVPR Flexible Work Profile One. Flexible Work Profile One is expected to work primarily on-site. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, MN. 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.

The Hormel Institute is an independent biomedical research department within the University of Minnesota’s Office of the Vice President for Research. Established in 1942, The Hormel Institute will soon be celebrating 80 years of innovative research and today’s vision is “We inspire discoveries that improve and extend human life.” The Hormel Institute’s biomedical research is primarily focused on cancer research and the center is cutting edge, after tripling in size in 2008 and again doubling in size in 2016. The Hormel Institute is continuing to grow and expand to broaden our impact through innovative, world class research. Our scientists have complete access to the most cutting-edge technologies including a cryo-electron microscope (Titan Krios and Tecnai G2 Spirit Biotwin), FACS cell sorter, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, protein crystallography robotics and defraction system, nano-HPLC-AB SCIEX triple TOF 5600 mass spectrometry, Leica tissue processor, embedder and microtome, real-time PCR instrumentation, 5 racks of Linux GPU supercomputers for computational biology and bioinformatics, spectrophotometers, and Western blot imagers. The Hormel Institute is located in Austin, MN, conveniently located 35 miles from Rochester, MN, and 100 miles (1.5 hours) south of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The Hormel Institute offers a collaborative, innovative, supportive work environment where you will contribute to our vision of “inspiring discoveries that improve and extend human life.”

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.

Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University’s Administrative Policy: COVID-19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit: https://safe-campus.umn.edu/return-campus/get-the-vax

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.