PACE Researcher

About the Role

The Hormel Institute Post Baccalaureate Accelerated Career Experience (PACE) program is structured to equip participants for a research-focused biomedical doctoral degree upon program completion. Its principal objective is to elevate participants' research proficiencies and academic competitiveness. The program is designed for candidates who demonstrate an interest in strengthening their laboratory skills, broadening their knowledge in fundamental biomedical research, and preparing for graduate-level research and training.

Program Features

• Comprehensive research experience in The Hormel Institute's cutting-edge research lab for one year, with a potential opportunity to extend for a second year.
• Professional development in a variety of topics and formats, including data club, grad school preparation, scientific communication, poster creation and presentation, responsible research conduct, and internal and external seminars.
• Immersive orientation program (Ramp Up) where participants learn from mentors and complete assessments for seamless integration into the lab-based experience.
• Intentional student and mentor pairing based on research and career interests.
• Customized Individual Development Plan crafted for each participant's success.

Program Benefits

• Competitive salary with full eligibility for The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota’s comprehensive benefits package, including affordable medical coverage and paid time off.
• Mentoring and guidance to foster a seamless transition into a research-based graduate program.
• Program designed to build a sense of community within a cohort for support with participants and mentors.
• Tailored seminars and professional development to expand each student's scientific area of focus and its correlation to biomedical research.

Key Responsibilities

Lab Research Training – 75%

• Perform laboratory experiments, including protein expression, purification, and cell culture work, as well as other relevant methodologies applicable to biomedical research.
• Preparation of buffers and solutions following standard lab protocols.
• Perform and modify documented protocols and assays.
• Maintain laboratory records and compile data on experiments and assays.
• Interpret and report on experimental results.
• Perform statistical analysis of test results and prepare written reports.
• Participate in lab meetings.
• Clean, sanitize, and maintain laboratory bench space and equipment, such as autoclaving glassware.
• Biohazard waste utilization by autoclaving.
• Maintain lab supplies inventory by checking stock, placing and expediting orders, and verifying receipt of supplies.
• Organize and maintain up-to-date laboratory safety protocols.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations.
• Keep track of lab personnel training records.
• Pending lab placement, may have vivarium-based research responsibilities/project.

Professional Development & Training - 25%

• Participate in a Ramp Up (orientation) dedicated to intentional lab matchups and learning.
• Collaborate with mentors and peers in a research setting.
• Engage in targeted training sessions to acquire necessary skills and knowledge.
• Attend and actively participate in PACE-specific program sessions.
• Engage with site-wide professional development, including data club, journal club, scientific seminars, and talks by external speakers.
• Conduct planning sessions to set goals and reflect on progress.
• Document reflections and learning outcomes to track professional growth.
• Attend seminars focused on learning, scientific communication, and responsible conduct of research.
• Engage in discussions and activities to enhance understanding and application of seminar topics.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Interest in strengthening laboratory skills.
• Interest in broadening knowledge in fundamental biomedical research.
• Interest in preparing for graduate-level research and training.

Flexible Work Profile

• This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile One: Office/Lab-Based.
• Expected to work primarily on-site at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota, with occasional and inconsistent remote work.
• On-site work may be necessary for certain positions.
• Employees are generally expected to live in Minnesota.