About the Job Summary: We are excited to announce the launch of our new lab in January 2025, within the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development at the University of Minnesota. We are seeking a Research Assistant at the Researcher 1 level to join our team. The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Xiaokang Lun and will be provided with a unique opportunity to learn best practices in mass cytometry-based single-cell analysis. The candidate will conduct bench work including antibody conjugation, single-cell sample preparation, and signal amplification with reactive DNA probes. The candidate will also operate and maintain the state-of-the-art CyTOF XT system, which will be located in our lab. About Our Lab: Our lab uses mass cytometry to profile the states and dynamics of up to 40 intracellular phosphorylation sites on key signaling proteins in single cells. This comprehensive measurement enables us to precisely determine the signaling and physiological states of each individual cell, including growth, proliferation, and responses to stress and inflammation, and to understand how these signaling activities integrate to determine cell fate. We also develop technologies based on DNA engineering to enhance the sensitivity and coverage of protein post-translational modification assessment and protein-protein interaction analysis. Combined with advanced single-cell and omics approaches, our methods allow for in-depth exploration of intracellular signaling networks and physical interaction networks in health and diseases. Using these methods, we aim to comprehensively interrogate the heterogeneous intracellular signaling networks involved in cancer progression. We seek to identify intracellular signaling responses underlying diverse susceptibility to cancer treatments and specific kinase inhibitors in clinical settings, ultimately aiming to enhance outcomes for cancer patients through the discovery of new druggable targets. Learn more about us at lun.umn.edu Responsibilities: 50% The candidate will work closely with senior lab members to conduct multiplexed single-cell protein epitope quantification using mass cytometry. This includes antibody conjugation, single-cell sample preparation, antibody staining, signal amplification with reactive DNA probes, operating the CyTOF XT mass cytometer for sample acquisition, as well as basic data processing and analysis. 30% Support the development of new technologies with engineered DNA probes to advance mass cytometry-based single-cell analysis. 10% Maintain the CyTOF XT mass cytometry system. 10% Participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and internal and external professional development activities. Qualifications All required qualifications must be documented in application materials Required Qualifications: BA/BS degree in biology, biomedicine, chemistry, or other related fields, or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years. Preferred Qualifications: Previous experience with mass cytometry, single-cell sequencing, or mass spectrometry Comfortable with or willing to learn computational tools for single-cell data analysis About the Department The Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development comprises faculty from both the Medical School and the College of Biological Sciences. Faculty members are engaged in research in three key disciplines of the department-genetics, cell biology and developmental biology. Benefits Working at the University At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work. The University also 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 Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits. How To Apply 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 - both must be submitted. 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. Diversity 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 Employment Requirements 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. About the U of M 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).