Entomology Lab Research Assistant

Summary:

Carries out applied research on soybean pests and summarizes data. Assists with field and laboratory research of other members of the laboratory. Assists in general lab upkeep coordinating staff, ensuring equipment is functional, insect and plant husbandry. Reviews literature as suggested by the investigation. Summarizes findings.

Duties:

1. 40% Carries out applied entomological research in the field and lab. Adapts and maintains equipment for each assay, carries out experiments in a safe and effective manner, basic post-processing and tabulation. Summarizes data by capturing summary statistics (means, sample sizes, etc.)

2. 30% Insect and plant husbandry, such as maintaining colonies of gall midges and other plant pests, maintenance of healthy plants to propagate insects, collection of immature/adults, sexing insects, extracting DNA, collecting from field and tabulating.

3. 15% Prepares laboratory by setting up equipment for research projects. Maintains laboratory by performing tasks such as cleanup, replenishing supplies and removing chemical waste.

4. 15% Oversees up to two undergraduates in maintenance of experiments and data collection in the field.

Qualifications

Required:

Bachelor's degree in Agronomy or Biology with 1-3 years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience rearing gall midges.

Experience performing field research, including collection of plant and insect samples.

Experience performing laboratory research on insect population ecology and molecular biology.

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also 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

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

How To Apply

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.

Diversity

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

Employment Requirements

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.

About the U of M

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 the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).