Researcher 5 - Department of Pharmacology

Researcher 5 - Structural Biology and Protein Biochemistry

The Laboratory of Structural Biology of Disease in the Department of Pharmacology studies the molecular mechanisms of viral entry and therapeutic development. The Researcher 5 will conduct structural and biochemical studies of viral and host proteins, including protein expression, purification, biochemical and biophysical characterization, structural analysis, and therapeutic inhibitor studies.

More information about the laboratory can be found at: https://structure.umn.edu/

Position Responsibilities

80% Research
Design, plan, conduct, and analyze complex research projects related to viral entry proteins and host-pathogen interactions. Develop and optimize protocols for protein expression, purification, crystallography or cryo-EM sample preparation, biochemical assays, and structural/functional analyses. Interpret data, maintain detailed records, present findings, and prepare manuscripts.

10% Laboratory management
Assist with maintaining laboratory equipment, inventories, protocols, safety compliance, and research documentation.

10% Training and collaboration
Train and assist students, postdocs, and staff in laboratory methods. Coordinate with collaborators and contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and grant-related materials.

Required Qualifications

PhD in biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, virology, pharmacology, or a related field.
At least 3 years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience.
Experience carrying out complex, independent research projects.
Experience with protein expression, purification, and biochemical characterization.
Strong written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, or other structural biology methods.
Experience with protein-ligand or protein-protein interaction studies.
Experience with molecular cloning, mutagenesis, enzyme assays, or biophysical assays.
Demonstrated publication record.
Experience training students or junior researchers.

The Department of Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota is one of six basic science departments in the Medical School. The well-funded research programs of our primary faculty members focus on understanding and developing better treatments for cancer, addiction and the opioid crisis, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, and metabolic syndrome. We also offer an undergraduate Pharmacology Minor, oversee the Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Graduate Program (MPaT), teach fundamental principles of pharmacology to students in professional degree programs (MD, DDS, and MD/PhD), and provide individualized training experiences for our strong community of postdoctoral scholars. Our past trainees are now applying their skills to impactful careers in academia, medicine, industry, government, law, and regulatory oversight. We are proud of our role in preparing the next generation of scientists for rewarding careers in the health sciences and related professions, and for the various other ways we give back to our community.

Pay Range: $75,000 per year

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A 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 employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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.

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.