Research Technician & Manager

The iBUG lab is looking for a research technician and manager that will contribute to a variety of research, managerial, and logistical tasks associated with setting up and launching lab research projects. The candidate will help to: develop standard operating procedures, set up lab infrastructure, oversee daily lab operations, install/maintain equipment, and ensure safety compliance.

This is a 100% time, temporary, Civil Service position, with an approximate contract spanning 12 months (September 2025-August 2026).

Responsibilities (non-exhaustive list)

• Assist with research (40%): Assist PI, students, and other staff with research projects including laboratory experiments, greenhouse work, field work (data collection, experimental setup, analysis, data curation, etc.)
• Manage lab resources (30%): Organize, stock, and setup lab infrastructure, manage inventory, interface with campus facilities and UMarket systems. Maintain assigned budgets.
• Training and standards development (30%): Training and supervision of undergraduate researchers, development of standard operating procedures and materials in conjunction with PI.

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS in entomology, ecology, biology, plant sciences, or related field or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least four years.
• Research experience in a university or industrial setting
• 100% FTE availability (40 hours per week)
• Ability to lift 50lbs and comfort working regularly in outdoor environments (heat, insects, etc).

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong understanding of basic scientific principles and research methods
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Clear and effective written and oral communication skills
• Understanding of the principles of data collection and ethics
• Excellent team-player and capacity to organize people to achieve a common goal

The Department of Entomology at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, established in 1888, is a leading institution in insect science, renowned for its research, education, and outreach initiatives. Housed within the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), the department focuses on the systematics, biodiversity, biology, and ecology of insects and their relatives, emphasizing their significance to human welfare and environmental health.

Pay Range: $23.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 100% Appointment (Temporary)

Position Type: Civil-Service

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.

Please contact Dr. Jeremy Hemberger (jhemberg@umn.edu) with any questions.

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 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).