The Hormel Institute Post Baccalaureate Accelerated Career Experience (PACE) is structured to equip participants for a research- focused biomedical doctoral degree upon program completion. Its principal objective is to elevate participants' research proficiencies and academic competitiveness, addressing the urgent call for diverse investigators in both fundamental and translational research. Priority will be given to candidates aspiring to bolster their laboratory skills, expand their knowledge in fundamental biomedical research areas, and prepare for rigorous and cutting-edge graduate research and training.

Program Features

• One year comprehensive research experience in The Hormel Instituteâ™s cutting edge research labs.
• Professional development in a variety of topics & formats including journal club, grad school preparation, scientific communication, poster creation and presentation, responsible conduct of research, internal and external seminars.
• Complete 2-week immersion program (Ramp Up) in which participants will learn from mentors and complete assessments to ensure seamless integration into the lab based experience. 
• Intentional student and mentor pairing based on research and career interests.
• Customized Individual Development Plan crafted for each participants success.
   

Program Benefits

• Salary and full eligibility for The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota's benefit package, including low-cost, comprehensive medical coverage and paid time off.
• Mentoring and guidance to foster a seamless transition into a research doctorate program. 
• Program designed to build a sense of community within cohort for support with participants and mentors.
• Tailored seminars and professional development to expand each student's scientific area of focus and its correlation to biomedical research.
   

Focus of Job Responsibilities

Lab Research Training â“ 75%

• Perform laboratory experiments that include protein expression, purification, and cell culture work as well as other relevant methodologies applicable to biomedical research. 
• Preparation of buffers and solutions following standard lab protocols. 
• Perform and modify documented protocols and assays.
• Maintain laboratory records and compile data on experiments and assays.
• Interpret and report on experimental results.
• Perform statistical analysis of test results and prepare written reports on work performed.
• Participate in lab meetings.
• Clean, sanitize and maintain laboratory bench space and equipment such as autoclaving glassware.
• Biohazard waste utilization by autoclaving.  
• Maintain lab supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level while placing. and  expediting orders for supplies and verifying receipt of supplies. 
• Organize and maintain up-to-date laboratory safety protocols.  
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations in conjunction with the laboratory.
• Keep track of lab personnel training records.
   

Professional Development & Training - 25%

• Participate in a two-week ramp-up period dedicated to intentional lab match-ups and learning.
• Collaborate with mentors and peers to identify suitable lab environments and research projects.
• Engage in targeted training sessions to acquire necessary skills and knowledge, empowering participants to achieve success
• Attend and actively participate in weekly PACE program sessions.
• Engage with site-wide programming, including data club, journal club, scientific seminars, and talks by external speakers.
• Conduct weekly planning sessions to set goals and reflect on progress.
• Document reflections and learning outcomes to track professional growth.
• Attend seminars focused on learning, sharing scientific communication, and responsible conduct of research.
• Engage in discussions and activities to enhance understanding and application of seminar topics.
   

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

• BA/BS degree  or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years
   

Preferred Qualifications

• GPA of 3.0 or greater.
• Successful completion of baccalaureate degree in a biomedically relevant field within 36 months of application.
• One (1) year of research experience. 
• Excitement and interest in research related career. 
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to leadership and service. 

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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