Research Interests

The Zhang and Dong Labs focus on two primary research areas:

· Genome and Epigenome Instability in Aging: Utilizing cutting-edge sequencing technologies to investigate somatic mutations and epimutations, exploring their roles in aging and age-related diseases.

· Multi-omics Technology Development: Developing and implementing innovative experimental and computational methods for integrated multi-omics studies.

About the Role

· Work under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI) or project leader.

· Independently conduct molecular biology experiments, including DNA/RNA extraction and next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation, following standard operating procedures (SOPs).

· Collaborate with wet-lab and computational scientists, supporting the experimental components of various research projects.

· Regularly present work-in-progress at lab or institutional meetings.

· Contribute to scientific manuscripts and grant progress reports.

Essential duties

· 80% Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI) or project leader, independently conduct molecular biology experiments, including DNA/RNA extraction and next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation, following standard operating procedures (SOPs).

· 20% Support the experimental components of various research projects, scientific manuscripts and grant progress reports. Report work-in-progress at lab or institutional meetings.


Required Qualifications

1. BA/BS degree plus at least four years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least eight years. 

2. At least three years of independent hands-on experience in next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation.

3. Strong problem-solving skills and demonstrated ability to troubleshoot technical issues.

4. Prior experience collaborating with wet-lab or computational (dry-lab) researchers.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Masterâ™s degree (MS) or higher in Genomics, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field.

2. Experience with automated liquid handling systems for NGS library preparation.

3. A publication record demonstrating research or collaborative experience.

4. Excellent communication and scientific writing skills.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following documents via email:

· A current CV or resume.

· A cover letter describing research experience, interests, and career goals.

· Contact information for three professional references. Please send applications to: zhan8273@umn.edu or dong0265@umn.edu