eDNA Research Assistant

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); Hybrid; USD 18,184 - 25,898; Part time

Job summary

The University of Minnesota is seeking an Undergraduate Research Assistant to assist with DNA analysis related to aquatic plant species. The candidate will work closely with the research team on tasks such as DNA extraction, PCR, and eDNA sample collection. The work schedule is flexible to accommodate educational commitments.

Preferred candidates will have laboratory experience, especially in PCR and DNA techniques. The role offers mentoring and training opportunities within a laboratory setting in Minnesota.

Qualifications

• Current undergraduate student with interest in molecular biology or related fields.
• Strong ability to follow protocols with attention to detail.
• Organizational skills to document methods and results effectively.

Responsibilities

• Extract DNA from aquatic plant tissues for analysis.
• Conduct PCR tests and analyze results.
• Assist with MinION sequencing and data interpretation.
• Participate in field collection of eDNA samples.

Job description

Undergraduate Research Assistant – Aquatic Plant DNA Analysis

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented undergraduate research assistant to assist with DNA analysis of aquatic plant species. The successful candidate will work closely with the research team to perform various laboratory tasks related to DNA extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing preparation, and environmental DNA (eDNA) sample collection.

Start Date: flexible, dependent on availability

End Date: flexible, dependent on availability

Time of Appointment/Position: 10-20 hours per week

Key Responsibilities

• DNA Extraction (10%): Extract DNA from various aquatic plant tissues, ensuring high-quality DNA suitable for downstream applications.

• Gradient PCR (10%): Perform gradient PCR for each primer set, document and analyze results for optimization of primer conditions.

• PCR Reactions (40%): Conduct PCR tests on approximately 100 aquatic plant DNA samples using 31 sets of primers, record and analyze PCR results.

• MinION Sequencing Support (20%): Assist with the preparation of samples for MinION sequencing, analyze sequencing results and provide support during result interpretation.

• eDNA Sample Collection (20%): Participate in field collection of eDNA samples from various lakes in Minnesota, process collected eDNA samples for subsequent PCR and sequencing analyses.

Training and Mentorship

• Direct mentorship from the postdoc and graduate student working on this project.

• All necessary reagents, kits, and equipment will be provided by the lab, with guidance available for troubleshooting PCR and other laboratory techniques.

• Primarily work alongside the lab team until sufficient skills and training in molecular biology techniques are demonstrated.

Work Environment

• Laboratory work with occasional fieldwork for sample collection in Minnesota.

• Flexible work hours depending on research needs, project timelines, and students' school work.

Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with basic laboratory techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA extraction.

• Experience with aquatic plants – natives or invasive species.

• Experience with database management.

• Experience with R.

Necessary Qualifications

• Current undergraduate student with a strong interest in molecular biology, biotechnology, environmental science, or related fields.

• Ability to follow protocols carefully, with attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.

• Strong organizational skills and ability to document experimental methods and results effectively and accurately.

• Willingness to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Ability to learn quickly and take initiative in troubleshooting issues.

• Must be able to work in a laboratory setting and possibly in field conditions for eDNA sample collection.

Pay and Benefits

• Pay Range: $16.00; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

• Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications.

Applicant Pool Notice

This posting does not constitute an announcement of open positions. It is used to establish a pool of applicants for potential openings during calendar year 2026. Applications will be retained for consideration should openings occur. Applications will not be individually acknowledged upon receipt. Appointments may be renewable based on need, funding availability, and satisfactory performance.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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 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.