Research Pro 1- Ecology - Temporary Position

Summary of Position:

This position will help in the management and execution of four research projects/initiatives in the Snell-Rood lab:

(1) lead survey of ground invertebrate communities in restored prairie habitats (40%)

(2) assist with sampling of microplastics and PFAS in urban stormwater ponds (30%)

(3) assist with sample processing, data analysis and writing related to microplastics in urban agricultural systems (20%)

(4) lead development of a website for a network researchers interested in bio-inspired design (10%)

This position only has funding through 12/31/2026 and future extensions of the appointment will require additional funding approval.

Key responsibilities across all of these projects include:

Leading or assisting with field sample collection

Curation and processing of samples in the lab

Soil and/or water extractions for microplastics and/or eDNA

Chemical analysis of samples

Microscope analysis of samples (e.g., ground invertebrate ID, 10%),

Data curation, and help with manuscript writing, e.g., literature reviews, basic analyses

Design and building of website

Required Qualifications:

BA/BS or a combination of education and experience to equal 4 years

Familiarity with microscopes and field sample processing

Familiarity with field sampling methods

Ability to pilot and revise sampling methods

Familiarity with MN invertebrates and plants

Ability to enter and quality control check data in spreadsheets

Preferred Qualifications:

Ability to learn more complex benchwork (e.g., DNA extractions)

Familiarity with scientific manuscript writing and/or editing

Ability to organize, manage and execute multiple research projects

Attention to detail and ability to design and validate research protocols

Work arrangements:

This role is offered as an on campus position.

This position is part-time (10 hours a week) but at times the student can work up to 40 hours a week if there is work to complete.

Working Conditions:

The majority of the work in this position is performed in a lab setting.

Pay Range: $23/hr depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

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

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.

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