Research Professional 1, Biomedical Research

The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota

About the Role

The Alam Laboratory at The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota studies the structure and function of human membrane proteins, with a focus on ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. The laboratory utilizes mammalian cell culture, recombinant protein expression and purification, biochemical and biophysical methods, and cryo-electron microscopy to investigate membrane-protein mechanisms. This position will support the laboratory's research program.

Key Responsibilities

Mammalian Cell Culture & Recombinant Protein Production (30%)

• Maintain mammalian cell cultures using established protocols and aseptic technique.
• Perform routine cell expansion, passaging, transfection, harvesting, cryopreservation, and recovery.
• Monitor cell growth and condition and maintain accurate culture records.
• Produce recombinant proteins using established expression protocols.

Protein Purification & Biochemical Characterization (30%)

• Prepare cell membranes and protein samples using established procedures.
• Perform established protein extraction and purification protocols.
• Operate routine chromatography and protein-analysis equipment following established procedures.
• Assess protein samples using methods such as SDS-PAGE, protein quantification, and established biochemical assays.

Experimental Research & Structural/Biophysical Sample Preparation (20%)

• Prepare samples for biochemical, biophysical, and structural studies using established protocols.
• Perform established experimental procedures under direction.
• Collect, organize, and document experimental data.
• Communicate experimental results and problems to the principal investigator and other laboratory personnel.

Laboratory Operations & Documentation (15%)

• Prepare buffers, media, reagents, and laboratory materials.
• Maintain laboratory stocks, samples, cell lines, plasmids, and experimental records.
• Assist with laboratory inventory, ordering, and routine equipment maintenance.
• Follow laboratory and University safety procedures.

Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

• Perform other research-related duties necessary to support the scientific objectives of the laboratory.

Work Profile

• This role is expected to work primarily on-site at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Mammalian cell culture
• Recombinant protein production
• Protein purification
• Biochemical characterization
• Sample preparation
• Laboratory operations
• Aseptic technique
• Chromatography
• SDS-PAGE
• Protein quantification
• Biochemical assays