Research Professional 5

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

We are recruiting a Researcher to start June 2026 to work on developing molecular tools for detecting aquatic invasive species, in particular, plants, from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples. The successful candidate will work as part of a collaborative team working to develop and optimize molecular techniques to detect aquatic invasive species (especially aquatic invasive plant species) in the Midwest region. Currently the lab uses the Oxford Nanopore MinION device to sequence eDNA samples after being processed with a series of PCR primers. The MinION is a portable sequencer that allows multiple species identification completely in the field, with results available within 1-2 days, can be conducted by field personnel with appropriate training. The project goals are to: identify metabarcoding markers; optimize MinION protocols; and develop new molecular based techniques so resource managers could quickly and cost-effectively conduct eDNA surveillance of waterbodies with high invasion risk or management needs. The tool(s) would aid early detection and rapid response of AIS, as well as initiate eDNA biodiversity assessments.

Candidates from underrepresented groups and/or with diverse backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply. The University seeks applicants whose research, teaching, and service will contribute to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity in higher education and at the University of Minnesota. Post-Doctoral Associates conduct research and/or service that provides further development of career skills or allows them opportunities to learn new research techniques. They are trained by and work in conjunction with a faculty mentor who determines the training agenda. Post-Doctoral Associates are receiving training while also performing services for the University of Minnesota, for which they are compensated.
Note: These are not positions to which permanent residency can be granted for international appointees.

Job Duties:

• Gather information on aquatic invasive plant species
• Join field sampling including collecting eDNA samples
• Developing assays for use on MinION device
• Testing samples on MinION device
• Developing and optimzing protocols for MinION work
• Meeting with collaborators and stakehodlers
• Participating in team activities and outreach activities
• Mentoring undergraduate and graduate student researchers
• Conducting relevant statistical analyses and interpreting results
• Lead data analysis, visualization, publishing manuscripts, and presenting/communicating results to a wide range of audiences
• Contribute to report writing, grant writing, and budget management

Required

• 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 will be given to candidates who have experience collecting and analyzing environmental DNA (eDNA) or other DNA work. A 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 are critical. Experience in quantitative modeling (using R), database management, and data visualization are required. Individual may be immediate post-degree or returning for additional training, updating, and/or retooling.

Preferred

• Experience working in a laboratory setting with DNA
• Experience collecting and processing environmental DNA (eDNA) samples
• Experience sampling for aquatic plant species (native or aquatic)
• 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

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.

• A resume and cover letter is required for consideration.

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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