Job description:
How lipids and lipoproteins contribute to vascular and brain aging, and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is unclear. We have a Researcher 2 position immediately available in the lab of Danni Li (Department of Lab Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota) to investigate lipids and lipoproteins in two important AD research projects funded by the National Institute on Aging.
We will conduct a large-scale analysis of already-collected blood samples from older adults to examine plasma components known as lipoproteins. This study will uncover previously unknown associations of the proteins and lipids found within plasma lipoproteins with AD development and progression, allowing us to identify new AD biomarkers related to the vascular system for further strategy development to prevent or slow the progression of AD or AD-related dementias. Inheritance of the apolipoprotein (APO) E4 gene is the most potent genetic risk factor identified to date for late-onset AD. We will determine the impact of mitochondrial lipidomic dynamics and its interaction with different APOE isoforms on brain aging and AD progression. We expect this person will be trained on how to use different wet lab techniques including but not limited to liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Over time, this person is expected to develop independence in carry out own projects. This person will be part of team that develop assays to characterize lipids and lipoproteins.

Responsibilities

80% Research Activities
Assist in designing research projects; independently plan and perform complex, multi-step experimental analyses; record all experimental protocols and data; organize and interpret experimental results.
Perform experiments and analyze experimental samples. Generate sample/control analysis reports. Responsible for generating, recording, and analyzing data.
Perform everyday tasks such as laboratory cleanup (using aseptic technique), replenishing supplies as needed, remove hazardous and chemical waste.
Organize and set up equipment for research projects.
20% Administrative Lab Tasks
Manage lab inventory and day to day orders
Maintain biosafety procedures and administrative records, laboratory paperwork
Assist with writing institutional protocols and manuscripts


Comp range: $24.50 - 30.00/hr

Qualifications
All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.
Required Qualifications:
• BS/BA in chemistry or a biochemistry and one year of relevant experience or a combination of education and experience to equal five years.
• Experience managing datasets and preparing analysis
• Excellent organization and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills – verbal and written.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Research experience in a wet lab
• Experience with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry

Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $24.50 - 30.00/hr; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 75%-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