Temporary Research Technician

The primary purpose of the Research Technician is to assist the Principal Investigator Solomon R. David and graduate students with research activities in the lab (during the academic year) and both field & lab (during summer months). Qualified individuals will have prior work or leadership experience and be motivated to work in a fast-paced environment dedicated to the conservation of gars, bowfin, and other Minnesota non-game native fishes. Research technicians will be expected to work together as a team with other lab members, maintain open lines of communication with PI David (and other senior lab members), and adhere to the University of Minnesota codes of conduct and all safety regulations.

Responsibilities:
* Fieldwork (50%). Duties include boat electrofishing, trap/fyke net sampling, seining/dip-netting of lake and river field sites throughout Minnesota (typically within 1-2 hours of the Twin Cities). Also includes associated vehicle and equipment clean-up and maintenance.

* Lab Work (50%).

Stable isotope analysis and otolith extraction via dissections (25%). Prepping fin tissue samples for the drying oven, grinding said samples, and organizing them in Eppendorf boxes with proper labels. Otoliths (ear stones) and other structures extracted via fish dissections.

Fish care (15%). Maintain water quality and proper housing for live fishes, feedings, and data collection (measurements, tissue samples, and proper disposal of deceased or euthanized fishes).

Lab social media and outreach (5%). Regularly participate in posting on ALL GarLab social media platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Bluesky, and X).

Assist graduate students with additional tasks and lab maintenance (5%). This may include data entry and other projects related to graduate students' theses.

Required Qualifications:
* Bachelor's degree in biology, natural resources, environmental science, or a related field
* Experience with data management and analysis (Google & Excel spreadsheets)
* Well-developed organizational and time management skills
* Care and attention to detail in field, laboratory, and computer-based research
* Strong written and verbal communication skills
* Ability to work independently and in a team environment
* Enthusiasm for science communication and engaging with diverse stakeholders
* Valid U.S. state driver's license
* Ability to work long hours outside and in inclement weather conditions
* Willingness to travel for work for several days at a time (some weekend work may be required)
* Ability to safely work in aquatic environments, including boating, canoeing, and wading

Preferred Qualifications/Skills/Experience:
* Prior experience working in aquatic ecology and/or fisheries
* Experience preparing proposals for research funding
* Experience with field collection methods for fishes including electrofishing, gillnets, fyke nets, and seining
* Experience working with interdisciplinary teams, including academics and non-academics

The GarLab at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities focuses on the ecology, conservation, and management of non-game native fishes, with an emphasis on "ancient fishes" (e.g. gars, bowfins). Additional projects involve conservation of migratory fishes and control of invasives species (e.g. Common Carp). Our team also communicates science through traditional and social media to raise awareness of the value of aquatic ecosystems and freshwater biodiversity.

Pay Range: $23.70; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

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.