Research Professional 1 – Biomedical Research
The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota
Summary
The Alam Laboratory at The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota studies the structure and function of human membrane proteins, with a focus on ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. The laboratory uses mammalian cell culture, recombinant protein expression and purification, biochemical and biophysical methods, and cryo-electron microscopy to investigate membrane-protein mechanisms. The position will support the laboratory's research program through mammalian cell culture, recombinant protein production and purification, biochemical characterization, sample preparation, and laboratory operations.
Job description
Position & Department Overview
The Alam Laboratory at The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota studies the structure and function of human membrane proteins, with a focus on ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. The laboratory uses mammalian cell culture, recombinant protein expression and purification, biochemical and biophysical methods, and cryo-electron microscopy to investigate membrane-protein mechanisms. The position will support the laboratory's research program through mammalian cell culture, recombinant protein production and purification, biochemical characterization, sample preparation, and laboratory operations.
Mammalian Cell Culture & Recombinant Protein Production — 30%
- Maintain mammalian cell cultures using established protocols and aseptic technique.
- Perform routine cell expansion, passaging, transfection, harvesting, cryopreservation, and recovery.
- Monitor cell growth and condition and maintain accurate culture records.
- Produce recombinant proteins using established expression protocols.
Protein Purification & Biochemical Characterization — 30%
- Prepare cell membranes and protein samples using established procedures.
- Perform established protein extraction and purification protocols.
- Operate routine chromatography and protein-analysis equipment following established procedures.
- Assess protein samples using methods such as SDS-PAGE, protein quantification, and established biochemical assays.
Experimental Research & Structural/Biophysical Sample Preparation — 20%
- Prepare samples for biochemical, biophysical, and structural studies using established protocols.
- Perform established experimental procedures under direction.
- Collect, organize, and document experimental data.
- Communicate experimental results and problems to the principal investigator and other laboratory personnel.
Laboratory Operations & Documentation — 15%
- Prepare buffers, media, reagents, and laboratory materials.
- Maintain laboratory stocks, samples, cell lines, plasmids, and experimental records.
- Assist with laboratory inventory, ordering, and routine equipment maintenance.
- Follow laboratory and University safety procedures.
Other Duties as Assigned — 5%
Perform other research-related duties necessary to support the scientific objectives of the laboratory, with duties appropriate to the level of appointment.
Work Profile
Profile 1, Office Lab-Based - is expected to work primarily on-site in the office/lab. Only occasionally and inconsistently working remotely. Your office/lab will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota.
Requirements
- Maintain mammalian cell cultures using established protocols and aseptic technique
- Perform routine cell expansion, passaging, transfection, harvesting, cryopreservation, and recovery
- Produce recombinant proteins using established expression protocols
- Perform established protein extraction and purification protocols
- Operate routine chromatography and protein-analysis equipment
- Assess protein samples using SDS-PAGE, protein quantification, and biochemical assays
- Prepare samples for biochemical, biophysical, and structural studies
- Collect, organize, and document experimental data
- Communicate experimental results and problems to principal investigator and laboratory personnel
- Prepare buffers, media, reagents, and laboratory materials
- Maintain laboratory stocks, samples, cell lines, plasmids, and experimental records
- Follow laboratory and University safety procedures
Company overview
The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, is a leading biomedical research facility founded in 1942 by Jay C. Hormel and The Hormel Foundation. Located in Austin, Minnesota, it operates as part of the University of Minnesota's Research and Innovation Office and is a proud partner of Mayo Clinic. For more than 80 years, the Institute has pursued its mission to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences, with applications in medicine and agriculture. Its scientists focus primarily on cancer prevention, treatment, and chronic disease research, supported by dozens of laboratories and state-of-the-art technology. The Institute also houses the Minnesota Bioimaging Center (MBiC) and a Cryo-EM facility, advancing cutting-edge structural biology. It serves as a clinical studies site, representing rural southeastern Minnesota communities, and offers educational programs, internships, and postdoctoral training to develop the next generation of research leaders.