Job Description

Dr Fang Li in the Department of Pharmacology is looking for a Researcher 3 to join his team.

Professor Li is a leading researcher in the coronavirus entry field, having determined many structures of coronavirus spike proteins and discovered the molecular events that lead to coronavirus entry into host cells. His research has been one of the major driving forces behind what we now know about receptor recognition and cell entry of coronaviruses. Moreover, he has developed structure-based strategies for vaccine design and drug development. His research provides foundational knowledge for the field of coronaviruses.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, Professor Li's research has elucidated how the pandemic virus infects cells while evading immunity. He has also been deciphering the evolution of COVID-19 variants. His research has laid foundations for vaccine and therapeutic developments.

Currently, Professor Li and his team are working on the development of innovative therapeutics to combat COVID-19, as well as improving the drug discovery process. In the long term, he aims to apply the scientific discoveries he has made in the field of coronaviruses to the treatment of other viral infections and human diseases.

Position Responsibilities:

70% - Research
⢠Independently perform and analyze results of complex molecular biology and protein biochemistry experiments to study virus entry into host cells and potential therapeutics against emerging viruses. Incumbent will receive limited supervision, so will need to work independently. 
⢠Assists in projects related to NIH funded grants via molecular cloning, cell culture and protein purification.
⢠Along with the PI, independently design research projects while planning and performing complex, multi-step experiments; recording all experimental protocols and data; organizing and interpreting experimental results.

30% Lab Operations
⢠Assist with various duties related to the functioning of the laboratory including but not limited to ordering and maintaining supplies and equipment.

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials

Required Qualifications: 
⢠BA/BS degree in one of the biology- or health-related fields (e.g., molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or food technology) and at least two (2) year of experience in the following areas: molecular cloning and protein purification; or a combination of related education and experience to equal six (6) years.
⢠Excellent oral and written communication skills
⢠Must demonstrate the ability to work independently and think critically about their research
⢠Excellent organizational skills, enthusiasm, creativity and motivation to learn

Preferred Qualifications:

⢠Masterâ™s degree in one of the biology or health-related fields (e.g., molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or food technology) with experience in the following areas: molecular cloning and protein purification. 
⢠Peer reviewed publications (particularly first-authored publications) are preferred.

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

Connections working at University of Minnesota Twin Cities

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