The Babicheva lab at the Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota is seeking a highly motivated, ambitious, and talented scientist to join an enthusiastic and collaborative team of outstanding scientists. The successful applicant will hold a terminal degree from an accredited institution, in the area of cellular and molecular biology, genetics, physiology or biomedicine and have a strong track record of, and potential for, success. The applicant should have a keen research interest in endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, cell signaling, calcium channels, gene expression regulation, or microRNA in cardiovascular research. He/she should be self-motivated in the assigned research projects, should be willing to receive training that enhances the individual's professional development and future formation of his/her own career as well as should be willing to seek for research funding. He/she should have experience of working in a research team environment and have experience of writing research reports, publications or other relevant outputs. Qualified individuals with experience in cellular and molecular biology or animal physiology in the field of pulmonary hypertension and/or heart failure are preferred. The Hormel Institute houses an equipment core including confocal and fluorescent microscopes, real time PCR, spectrophotometers, tissue processor and microtome, cryostat, and high speed and ultracentrifuges. The core facilities are further supported by dedicated facility managers responsible for training, support, and usage of equipment.
The position is in the laboratory of Dr. Aleksandra Babicheva with overall interest in pulmonary vascular pathophysiology and right heart dysfunction, with particular emphasis on: a) pathogenic and therapeutic mechanisms of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension, as well as pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obstructive sleep apnea, interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, sickle cell disease and scleroderma; b) cellular and molecular mechanisms of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and pulmonary vascular remodeling; c) regulation of Ca2+ signaling in vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells isolated from humans and animals with pulmonary hypertension; d) role of microRNAs in the development and progression of pulmonary hypertension. A multidisciplinary approach combining physiological, genetic, biochemical and molecular biological techniques is used to study the molecular mechanisms of vascular remodeling in pulmonary hypertension and to find new targets to develop novel therapeutically effective treatments for patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Responsibilities
Conduct physiological experiments in mice and rats including assessment of hemodynamic parameters, cardiac function, isometric vessel tension in mouse and rat pulmonary arteries using wire myograph, isolated perfused lung function and lung morphology
Conduct cellular and molecular biological experiments including Western Blot, immunofluorescence, PCR, qPCR, cell-based assays, fluorescence calcium imaging, isolation of vascular endothelial/smooth muscle cells from rodent and human lungs
Perform data acquisition and analysis, grant and manuscript preparation, and presentation of findings at weekly lab meetings
Maintain transgenic mouse colonies (i.e., breeding and genotyping), managing lab research records (e.g., methodological approaches, experimental records, and protocols), and maintaining a clean lab and the function of lab equipment.
Maintain a safe, clean and functional laboratory
Focus of Job Responsibilities
70% - Ongoing Research
Design and implementation of hypothesis-driven research projects.
15% - Analysis & Review
Analysis and review of generated data
Review of scientific literature
15% - Scientific writing
Preparation of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Preparation of grants proposals for submission to seek research funding.
The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) and The Hormel Institute endorses a “work with flexibility” approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.
This position has been designated as Flexible Work Profile One. Flexible Work Profile One is expected to work primarily on-site. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, MN. The Hormel Institute management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.
Required Qualifications
Applicants should be highly motivated and have a doctoral level degree (PhD, DVM, MD or equivalent)
Applicants must possess good communication skills and be fluent in both spoken and written English
Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with experience in cardiovascular physiology or biochemistry/molecular biology techniques are strongly encouraged to apply
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.