Regular/Temporary
Regular
Employee Class
Acad Prof and Admin
About the Job
About the Job: The Advanced Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (ARDL) is a highly complex research laboratory that specializes in support of large multicenter clinical trials and epidemiological studies. Specific areas of interest for faculty at ARDL include identification of novel biomarkers of healthy aging and biomarkers for early detection and monitoring or of patients with diabetes, renal disease, Alzheimer's disease related dementias and cardiovascular disease. Laboratory support for these multi-center studies ranges from novel biomarker development, implementation of standardized biomarker measurement, and coordinating biospecimen collection and processing. ARDL maintains a large central biorepository of 3-4 million aliquots that supports ongoing biomarker development in all these studies. A unique aspect of the ARDL is that it is a research laboratory that is fully accredited by CLIA/CAP and part of UMN Laboratory Medicine and Pathology Department under the Medical School. ARDL supports a wide variety of biomarker platforms spanning the range from genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics to functional approaches. ARDL also utilizes mass spectrometry for accurate quantitation of molecules and targeted multiplexed assays using this platform. Genomics technologies used include a variety of DNA/RNA extraction platforms, quantitative real time PCR, targeted genotyping and next generation sequencing. ARDL performs a wide range of immunoassays ranging from standard ELISAs to targeted multiplexed immunoassays on the Ella platform. ARDL also utilizes proteomic discovery platforms such as Olink and performs ultra-sensitive protein quantitation on the Quanterix and Alamar platforms. In addition, ARDL also performs multi-parameter flow cytometry and has a well established cell culture facility that specializes in cell cryopreservation, EBV based cell transformation, culture of iPSCs and actively developing cell differentiation protocols. Work Arrangement: * This is one year appointment. * The position is expected to work primarily on-site. Your work location will be at the Advanced Research and Diagnostics Laboratory. * The Department retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.
Work Schedule: Primarily Mon - Fri day shift. May require occasional weekend or evening shifts.
Responsibilities: * 60% -Assay Development and validation work o Works collaboratively under the direction of Dr. Thyagarajan and the Genomics o Core supervisor to investigate, develop, validate and implement assays within the Genomics o Core of the Advanced Research and Diagnostics Laboratory (ARDL). Examples of these assays include but are not limited to next generation sequencing based assays, long read sequencing, culturing induced pluripotent stem cells, CRISPR based experiments and other genomics assays. o Reviews literature and participates in research efforts by investigating and evaluating new methods. Assists in organizing new method validation data, summarizing preliminary data for grant applications, preparation of data for publication and peer review, and participates in formal presentations as needed. o Develops and prepares data analysis reports, quality assurance metrics, procedures and training checklists. Participates and oversees training of lab personnel on various assays developed in the Genomics Core.
* 20% - Perform testing, evaluate accuracy of data and report results or findings. Recognize problems and take appropriate measures for resolution. Determine if test results fall within expected parameters and reporting protocols. Assess the validity of the test results in relation to clinical conditions or technical factors. Knowledgeable of relevant factors which can influence test results.
* 20% - Responsible for documenting and monitoring quality control and quality assurance programs. Recognizes and communicates values and trends that exceed quality control decision levels and takes appropriate action to resolve. * Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
All required qualifications must be documented on application materials. Required Qualifications:
* Masters degree in biological sciences or a related field with at least one year of work experience in * genomics/genetics area * Experience in assay method development * Hands on experience with cell culture and basic molecular biology techniques such as PCR * Must be self-motivated, organized, detail orientated, independent and have excellent * critical thinking skills * Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with others * Excellent oral and written communication skills * Ability to manage multiple demands and multiple projects
Preferred Qualifications: * Experience training other laboratory personnel * Record of presenting research through peer-reviewed publications and/or conference * Presentations * Previous work experience in ARDL preferred
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $80,000 - 82,000 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience 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.
How To Apply
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.
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.
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