Job Description
Summary of Position:
This research position provides support for diverse data, lab and field research activities. Primary duties include collecting and managing data in support of research to understand pond dynamics, lake ecosystems, visitor perceptions of lake water quality and street sweeping. The candidate may be involved in supporting a range of other activities including field sampling, lab processing of samples and data work for lakes, streams, and wetlands in Minnesota, especially the Twin Cities area. Field activities could include sampling of lakes, ponds, and streams for water quality parameters. Lab activities will include preparation of field equipment, filtering and processing water samples, and analyzing them for water quality variables. Data activities include curation, management and analyses of data, including data from partners and publicly available datasets. This is a temporary position and position length is dependent on funding. This appointment currently has funding through 12/31/2026 but appointment length is dependent on continued funding.
About the lab: This position will support researchers, collaborators and research projects in Jacques Finlay’s lab in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior,
50% Research on urban ponds, including field sampling, data acquisition, and sample processing
20% Support for lake research, including field sampling, data processing and logistics support
20% Support for research on street sweeping to coordinate with partner cities, acquire samples, manage processing and transfer to analytic lab, and organize data.
10% General lab support and special projects
Required Qualifications: BA/BS degree in Biological Sciences, Environmental Studies or related disciplines, and relevant work experience to equal at least four years. Interests in Water Resources Science, Environmental Engineering, Ecology and working with people and data.
Attention to details and ability to collaborate in all aspects of the position
Preferred Qualifications: Strong motivation to contribute to freshwater and environmental research
Quantitative skills and attention to detail
Communication and organizational skills
Interest in interdisciplinary research and learning new skills.
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.
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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).
Job Tags
Temporary work, Work experience placement