We use cookies. Find out more about it here. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.
#alert
Back to search results
New

Gross Lab - Researcher

University of Minnesota
retirement plan
United States, Minnesota, Duluth
Aug 20, 2025
Apply for Job
Job ID
369892
Location
Duluth
Job Family
Research
Full/Part Time
Part-Time
Regular/Temporary
Temporary
Job Code
8351RS
Employee Class
Civil Service
Add to Favorite Jobs
Email this Job
About the Job

Job Title: Researcher - Dept ID 10340
Hours per week: 30-40 hours
Reports to: Briana L. Gross
Pay Range: $22 to $25 per hour

This Position will run from 9/1/2025 - 12/31/2025

Position Overview:
The Department of Biology is the hub for fundamental biological sciences at UMD. The department is committed to furthering study of our natural world and have a strong collaborative network to support our students in a wide range of fields, from conservation to biomedical sciences. Our mission includes undergraduate education, research, graduate education, and service.

Despite the popularity of wild blueberries and the importance of their close relatives, we know little about the genetic and reproductive health of Minnesota populations. This is a particularly critical gap because each of these species can spread by clonal (vegetative) growth, so populations that appear large and healthy might actually consist of only one genetic individual, meaning there is no genetic diversity. Indeed, previous genetic work on Minnesota lingonberry shows that some populations are dominated by only 2-4 clones. If a population consists of only a few clones, this can have two negative consequences: 1) Lack of genetic diversity to respond to environmental changes (poor genetic health), and 2) Low berry production when most pollen comes from the same clone (poor reproductive health). Both of these consequences can ultimately result in population collapse and species decline. This Researcher 2 will perform surveys of blueberries and related species (dwarf bilberry, lingonberry) in Northeastern Minnesota to determine their reproductive health and also engage in sampling for genetic health assessment.

Job Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Reproductive health monitoring - 70%
    • Travel relatedly to field sites in Northeastern Minnesota, locate pre-existing experimental Vaccinium plots, and collect detailed measurements of plant density, flower, and fruit production.
    • Some site visits will require overnight stays.
  • Genetic sampling - 15%
    • Collect and process samples for genetic work from field sites. This includes moderate lab work (weighing, labeling).
  • Data entry and record keeping - 15%
    • Keep meticulous records of all data and observations.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • BA/BS degree, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal four years
  • Ability to hike and work outside
  • Ability to learn to identify plants
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to travel, including occasional overnight camping

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Computer literacy including MS Excel or other spreadsheet program
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and solve problems
  • GIS experience
  • Experience with experimental design and implementation
  • Experience with genetic data generation and analysis
  • Previous experience with plant reproductive health measurements in the field
Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $22 to $25 per hour; 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.

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

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.

This position will remain open until filled.

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

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

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).

Applied = 0

(web-5cf844c5d-bjxg9)