Research Professional

About The Job

Department:
Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology
College/Unit:
College of Food, Agriculture, and Natural Sciences

Work Schedule:

Weekdays
FLSA Status:
Exempt

Reports To:

Dr. Nick Phelps (Professor, FWCB and MAISRC Director) and Dr. Lynn Waterhouse (Adjunct Professor, FWCB and MNCFWRU Assistant Unit Leader)

Work Location:

UMN Twin Cities St Paul Campus with hybrid work schedule with supervisor approval
Percent Time: 100%
Salary: $73,250 annually

Start Date:

June 2026

We are recruiting a Researcher to develop molecular tools for detecting aquatic invasive species, especially aquatic invasive plant species, from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples. The successful candidate will work with a collaborative team to identify metabarcoding markers, optimize Oxford Nanopore MinION protocols, and develop new techniques for rapid, cost‑effective eDNA surveillance in the Midwest.

• Gather information on aquatic invasive plant species
• Join field sampling, including collecting eDNA samples
• Develop assays for use on MinION device
• Test samples on MinION device
• Develop and optimize protocols for MinION work
• Meet with collaborators and stakeholders
• Participate in team activities and outreach activities
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate student researchers
• Conduct relevant statistical analyses and interpret results
• Lead data analysis, visualization, publishing manuscripts, and presenting results to diverse audiences
• Contribute to report writing, grant writing, and budget management

• Ph.D. in Biology, Ecology, Genetics, Fisheries, Wildlife Biology, Limnology, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field with one or more years of research training.
• Strong preference for candidates with experience in environmental DNA (eDNA) or related DNA work.
• Strong work ethic, good communication skills, attention to detail, interest in aquatic invasive plant species with management implications, and the ability to work both collaboratively and independently.
• Experience in quantitative modeling (using R), database management, and data visualization.

• Experience working in a laboratory setting with DNA.
• Experience collecting and processing environmental DNA (eDNA) samples.
• Experience sampling aquatic plant species (native or invasive).
• Experience applying, fitting, and analyzing results from occupancy models.
• Experience mentoring and supervising undergraduate and graduate student researchers.
• Experience seeking out and applying for funding opportunities.
• Experience or interest in science communication.

Pay Range: $73,250 annually
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
Position Type:
Faculty and P&A Staff

• 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 contributions
• 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 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.

• A résumé and cover letter is required for consideration.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and supporting the academic mission. Candidates from underrepresented groups and/or with diverse backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply. 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.

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.