R1 Research Technician

Anticipated Start Date: August 26, 2025
Expected End Date: December 31, 2025
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm (some days may end earlier or later based on fieldwork)

Responsibilities:
* Develops and executes protocols and procedures for field work in support of sponsored research projects (20%). Duties include organizing equipment and supply purchasing, training new team members in lab-specific field protocols, collecting/identifying samples (fish, invertebrates) from aquatic ecosystems across the Midwest and Southern United States, trailering and driving boats.
* Develops and executes protocols and procedures for lab work in support of sponsored research projects (15%). Duties include organizing equipment and supply purchasing, training new team members in lab-specific protocols, general lab upkeep, fish dissections, identifying invertebrates, processing samples for stable isotope analysis, morphometric and life history analyses, and preparing tissue samples for genetic analyses.
* Assists with science communication of lab research activities (15%). Communications through preparation and publication of scientific manuscripts (included as co-author when author qualification/contributions are met), presentations, and lab online media (e.g. website & social media channels).
* Assists with data management, analysis, and interpretation for multiple research projects (25%). Duties include requesting data from state and federal agencies and non-profit groups,
quality control on these data, compiling data from multiple sources into a usable and cohesive format, using R to extract, analyze, share, and visualize data. Identifying and applying appropriate analytical methods in consultation with supervisor, analyzing data and interpreting results, and communicating findings via presentations and written materials.
* General support of and assistance with lab group operations (25%), ensuring adherence to regulatory and safety requirements for lab and field work, including obtaining necessary permits, coordinating with the University Animal Use and Care Committee, developing trainings on field/lab equipment, and ensuring that all lab members are up to date on required trainings.

Required Qualifications:
* Experience with data management and analysis (including spreadsheets, data visualization, and statistical software R)
* 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 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 writing scientific manuscripts
* Experience preparing proposals for research funding
* Experience with field collection methods for fishes including electrofishing, gillnets, fyke nets, and seining
* Prior experience working with large datasets collected by multiple agencies
* Experience working with interdisciplinary teams, including academics and non-academics
* Experience performing laboratory sample preparation and analyses
* Ability to safely operate watercraft and tow boat trailers

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: $23.00 - $25.00; 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 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).