Senior Flow Cytometry Specialist

Title: Senior Flow Cytometry Specialist
Job Code & Class: 9792RL Researcher 6
Department: University Flow Cytometry Resource
Budgeted Salary Range: $86,000 - $94,000

Position Overview

The candidate that fills this position will be managing the daily operations of the flow cytometry resource at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities as well as being the senior specialist of the resource. This includes, but is not limited to, performing quality control and set up of flow cytometers, operating the flow cytometry analyzers and sorters for customers as requested including data acquisition, analysis, and sorting. Training, troubleshooting and consultation for experimental design are also key components of the skill set needed in the resource. There is also opportunity to stay up to date in the field through attendance at courses and conferences.

This position is based on campus. Per UMN policy, work may be done remotely when appropriate and approved by your manager. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures.

Job Responsibilities

Function 1 (40%)

• Utilizes flow cytometry cell sorters for a wide range of sample types for optimum data acquisition and cell sorting performance.

Function 2 (20%)

• Provides instruction and guidance to UFCR staff, researchers and trained users including scheduling, planning and analysis of samples as well as advanced instrumentation questions and problems.

Function 3 (20%)

• Assist in the daily operation of the shared resource including monitoring equipment, operational supplies and employee scheduling.

Function 4 (10%)

• Technical writing and review of written materials from UFCR staff for service recordkeeping, instrument operation and customer training.

Function 5 (5%)

• Handles special projects as assigned.

Function 6 (5%)

• Remains familiar with lab related safety procedures (specifically biohazard safety), current research and reagent options and critically reviews customer data and service-related data using appropriate analysis tools.
  
  PAY & BENEFITS
  Pay Range: Depending on education/qualifications/experience
  Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
  Work Location: In person
  
  ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
  
  The University Flow Cytometry Resource is an established shared resource interested in providing high-quality services for current and future generations of flow cytometrists as well as supporting the career goals of the UFCR team. Our instrumentation includes 9 analytical cytometers -1 Cytek Aurora (3 lasers), 4 Cytek Aurora (5 lasers), 1 BD LSRFortessa (5 lasers), 1 LSR Fortessa X-20(5 lasers), 2 BD FACSymphony A3 (5 lasers), and 1 BD Symphony X-30 (5 lasers). For sorting, the UFCR has instrumentation in 4 locations including 2 Aurora CS (5-laser), 2 Miltenyi Tyto Lux microfluidic sorters, 1 BD FACS Aria II (4 lasers) and 1 Sony MA 900 (4 lasers).We also perform training and offer consultation and for-hire services to all customers. The UFCR also manages a fee-based BD Flowjo portal system accessible to all University staff. The UFCR provides services to over 125 investigators and 300 hands-on users annually from across the institution.

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.

Required Qualifications

• Advanced Degree in a Basic Science or related field.
• Seven (7) years of experience with flow cytometry cell analysis instrumentation operation and repair.
• Five (5) years experience with the operation of droplet-based high speed cell sorting instrumentation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Independent operation of flow cytometry instrumentation. BD FACSDiVa software, Cytek Spectroflo software and related cell analyzer and cell sorter instrumentation a plus.
• Ability to apply a broad understanding of biological systems and techniques to assist research staff in obtaining and interpreting optimal results.
• Possess excellent customer service skills.
• Excel at working independently and as part of a team.
• Flow cytometric data analysis processes.
• Biomedical research lab experience.
• Online tools and resources for experimental planning.

Physical Requirements

• Able to lift objects weighing up to 40 lbs.
• Frequently stand, walk twist, bend stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, perform desk-based computer tasks.
• May require repetitive motion.

The University Flow Cytometry Resource (UFCR) is an established shared resource interested in providing high-quality services for current and future generations of flow cytometrists as well as supporting the career goals of the UFCR team. Our instrumentation includes 9 analytical cytometers -1 Cytek Aurora (3 lasers), 4 Cytek Aurora (5 lasers), 1 BD LSRFortessa (5 lasers), 1 LSR Fortessa X-20(5 lasers), 2 BD FACSymphony A3 (5 lasers), and 1 BD Symphony X-30 (5 lasers). For sorting, the UFCR has instrumentation in 4 locations including 2 Aurora CS (5-laser), 2 Miltenyi Tyto Lux microfluidic sorters, 1 BD FACS Aria II (4 lasers) and 1 Sony MA 900 (4 lasers).We also perform training and offer consultation and for-hire services to all customers. The UFCR also manages a fee-based BD Flowjo portal system accessible to all University staff. The UFCR provides services to over 125 investigators and 300 hands-on users annually from across the institution.

Pay Range: $86,000-$94,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University 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

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

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.

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.

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

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.

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