Research Assistant

About the Job

The Graduate Assistant position is available in the Pulmonary Vascular Biology Laboratory to investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular adaptation in pulmonary hypertension reporting to Dr. Aleksandra Babicheva. The successful candidate will combine experimental physiology with computational biology and bioinformatics approaches to analyze multi-dimensional biological datasets and generate new mechanistic insights. This position is expected to work four hours a day Monday-Friday. This position is covered by the Graduate Labor Union-United Electrical, Radio and Machine Workers of America Local 1105. Appointments are offered each semester according to UMN academic calendars. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position as needed. The deadline to apply is September 4, 2026.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Maintain mouse colonies (i.e., breeding and genotyping), managing lab research records (e.g., methodological approaches, experimental records, and protocols).
• Work with others in the lab to assist with the pharmacological experiments in rodents including sample collection to test the therapeutic potential of drugs to treat pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure.
• Conduct laboratory-based research using cellular and animal models of cardiopulmonary disease and performing molecular biology, cell biology, histology, microscopy, and physiological experiments.
• Design a method to isolate pulmonary vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells from human and animal specimens.
• Processing and analyzing transcriptomic datasets (bulk RNA-seq and/or single-cell RNA-seq), performing differential gene expression, pathway enrichment, and gene ontology analyses, integrating publicly available genomic and transcriptomic datasets with laboratory-generated data, developing reproducible data analysis workflows using R and/or Python.
• Organizing supplies, materials or equipment and setting-up equipment for laboratory experiments or demonstrations; may perform minor equipment maintenance. Operating laboratory and experimental equipment such as microscopes, fluorescent microscopes, centrifuges, analytical balances, cell incubators, cell/tissue storage tank; making minor repairs and arrangements for major repairs to be performed.
• Responsibilities will include data acquisition and analysis, grant and manuscript preparation, and presentation of findings during weekly lab meetings.
• Cleaning glassware and other laboratory equipment or materials using appropriate standards; keeping laboratory area clean.

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.

Flexible Work Profile

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) 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 eligible for Flexible Work Profile One.

Flexible Work Profile One, Office/Lab-Based - is expected to work primarily on-site in the office/lab. Only occasionally and inconsistently working remotely. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota. 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.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree.
• Previous laboratory experience.
• Understanding of basic molecular techniques.
• Excellent written, oral communication and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with isolation of primary cells (human, rodent).
• Experience with electrophysiological experiments (patch-clamp).
• Ability to use software for statistics such as EXCEL, SigmaPlot, GraphPad, Prism, RedCap.
• Knowledge of research and laboratory equipment appropriate to the area of the assignment.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Must be comfortable working in environments that may include close contact with animals, animal byproducts, and related materials.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, outdoor environments, and potential odors or airborne particles related to animal care.

About the Department

Founded in 1942 by Jay C. Hormel and The Hormel Foundation, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, makes scientific advancements that enhance wellbeing and extend human life. For more than 80 years, we have pursued our mission to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences with applications in medicine and agriculture. A part of the University of Minnesotas Research and Innovation Office, The Hormel Institute partners with the regions leading biomedical research facilities, including Mayo Clinic.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $32.83 depending on education/qualifications/experience. This position is paid on a biweekly basis.

Please visit the Office of Student Health Benefits website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

Student workers are eligible to participate in the Student Health Benefit Plan, if they maintain 6 or more eligible course credits within a given semester. The same applies for Undergraduate Students, Graduate Assistants, Residents, Fellows and Interns.

Application Deadline: September 4, 2026.

How To Apply

Student positions are a form of financial support while pursuing an education at the University of Minnesota.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a 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 jobcentr@umn.edu.

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 University of Minnesota

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 nations 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 Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.