Researcher 1

A position is available in Dr. Matthew Aliota’s laboratory at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary medicine to study the evolution, transmission, and pathogenesis of Zika virus and related arboviruses. Understanding arbovirus evolution, transmission, and pathogenesis is essential for preparing for the next epidemic. The applicant will provide technical assistance to help design experiments and develop improved technologies for understanding the relationship between viral genetics and disease outcomes.

Duties will include assay development, optimization, and quality control (~20% time);
performing animal experiments (~20% time);
extracting viral nucleic acid for quantification of viral loads (~20% time);
performing various assays to understand immune responses (~20% time);
and writing and presenting research findings (~10% time). The successful applicant will also assist with laboratory management duties, such as ordering supplies, keeping laboratory records, and managing personnel (~10% time). The position will involve close collaboration with other research teams at the University of Minnesota and beyond. Duties will include sharing of research findings with these collaborators. Excellent written and oral communication skills are therefore essential.