Research Professional 4 - Department of Pharmacology

The Spencer Lab is seeking a researcher to join our group working on understanding the neural mechanisms underpinning the development at substance use disorders and relapse. We study neuroplasticity, neurochemistry, and behavior associated with addiction as a relapse-remitting brain disorder.

We are a part of the Department of Pharmacology within the Medical School at the University of Minnesota and a part of the Medical Discovery Team on Addiction (MDTA), a multi-departmental initiative that aims to advance research leading to innovative treatments for addiction.

Responsibilities:

50% Laboratory Management
* Write or modify IACUC, IRB, and IBC protocols
* Assist with laboratory organization and enforce adherence to regulatory requirements
* Interact, communicate, and coordinate with various stakeholders, including UMN cores and collaborators, to efficiently complete research projects
* Maintain lab supplies
* Lab waste management procedures

25% Independent Research
* Conduct in vitro and in vivo experiments focusing on the neurocircuitry underpinning substance use disorders in rodent models
* Independently design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments from start to finish, optimizing as necessary

25% Research Support
* Propose alternative methods, modify existing procedures, and/or develop new protocols to achieve research objectives
* Assist in training undergraduate and graduate students on experimental techniques and research methodologies
* Serve as an expert resource for lab members, external collaborators, and the broader scientific community
* Prepare manuscripts and figures for publication

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS in Experimental Psychology, Neuroscience, Pharmacology or related discipline and at least 5 years of experience in behavioral pharmacology research or a combination of education and experience to equal 9 years.
• Extensive experience with designing, implementing and conducting experiments using rodent behavioral models.
• Hands on experience with both mouse and rat models
• Exemplary understanding of statistical analysis and ability to interpret outputs
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience communicating results and concepts with an audience with a wide background such as neuroscientists, pharmacologists, and laboratory scientists
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Highly motivated, ability to identify potential problems and develop solutions.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing needs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in performing aseptic surgery on rodents
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques
• Excellent planning, organization and execution skills.
• Positive attitude and good interpersonal skills.
• Strong stance on mentorship and collaboration with aspiring researchers
• Proficiency in statistical and graphical software such as SPSS, Graphpad, etc.
• Ability to prepare manuscripts for presentation and publication.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct experiments independently, troubleshoot complex technical challenges, and drive scientific projects to successful completion with minimal supervision.

The Department of Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota is one of six basic science departments in the Medical School. The well-funded research programs of our primary faculty members focus on understanding and developing better treatments for cancer, addiction and the opioid crisis, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, and metabolic syndrome. We also offer an undergraduate Pharmacology Minor, oversee the Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Graduate Program (MPaT), teach fundamental principles of pharmacology to students in professional degree programs (MD, DDS, and MD/PhD), and provide individualized training experiences for our strong community of postdoctoral scholars. Our past trainees are now applying their skills to impactful careers in academia, medicine, industry, government, law, and regulatory oversight. We are proud of our role in preparing the next generation of scientists for rewarding careers in the health sciences and related professions, and for the various other ways we give back to our community.

Pay Range: $32.70 - 36.06 per hour; 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

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.

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

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.

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 the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).