The Aslanidi Lab research is focused on bioengineering and the application of Adeno-Associated virus (AAV) vectors for the purpose of lung-directed gene. The research addresses several important drawbacks in AAV-based gene therapy such as vector efficiency to transduce lung epithelial and basal cells, pre-existing and therapy-activated immunogenicity, scaled-up vector production, and assessment of efficacy in pre-clinical animal models. The goal of our research is to ensure advancement of gene therapy treatment for patients with lung-specific genetic diseases.

Position Duties and Responsibilities

Conduct research in a self-sufficient and self-motivated manner.
Conduct experiments on novel viral vector design, development, and validation.
Development of a novel protocol to improve viral vector production.
Conduct experiments on immune responses toward viral capsid and encoded transgene.
Work with airway epithelial primary cells, and blood from small and large animals, as well as humans.
Carry out animal experiments, necropsy, and tissue processing.
Evaluate AAV-mediated gene expression in airway epithelial cell by qPCR, immunostaining and flow cytometry.
Collect and analyze data to support the research claims.
Write reports, and manuscripts and give scientific presentations.
Comply with IBC, IACUC, and IRB policies, and maintain a safe and healthy laboratory environment.

Focus of Job Responsibilities

70% â“ Ongoing Research
Design and implementation of hypothesis-driven research projects.

15% â“ Analysis & Review
Analysis and review of generated data and reviewing previously reported scientific literature.

15% â“ Scientific writing and presentation

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorses a âœwork 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 eligible for 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
Ph.D., DVM, MD or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with experience in gene therapy and viral vectors, particularly Adeno-associated virus vectors.
Candidates with robust expertise in molecular biology and bioprocessing.
Candidate with experience in primary airway epithelial cell biology.
Candidates interested in pre-clinical and translational research.
Candidates demonstrated evidence of relevant training and peer-reviewed publications.

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.

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