eDNA Research Assistant

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

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship from experienced researchers

Flexible work hours

Access to lab resources

Job summary

The University of Minnesota is seeking an Undergraduate Research Assistant for Aquatic Plant DNA Analysis. This position involves assisting with DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and field collection of eDNA samples from lakes in Minnesota. The role will provide mentorship and hands-on experience in molecular biology and environmental science.

Successful candidates will work 10-20 hours per week in a lab setting with occasional fieldwork. Prior experience in laboratory techniques is preferred but not required.

Qualifications

• Must have a strong interest in molecular biology and environmental science.
• Ability to document experimental methods accurately.
• Must be able to adapt and learn quickly in a lab setting.

Responsibilities

• Extract DNA from aquatic plant tissues and prepare for analysis.
• Conduct PCR tests and analyze results for optimization.
• Participate in the collection of eDNA samples from lakes.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Basic laboratory techniques

Fieldwork experience

Education

Current undergraduate student

Tools

PCR

Gel electrophoresis

Database management

R programming

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. The role provides valuable hands‑on experience in molecular biology techniques and environmental science research. The employee will receive mentorship throughout the process, with guidance on troubleshooting and experimental protocols.

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 to the team 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

• Undergraduate employee will receive direct mentorship from the postdoc and graduate student working on this project.
• All necessary reagents, kits, and equipment will be provided by the lab, and guidance will be available for troubleshooting PCR and other laboratory techniques.
• Undergraduate will primarily work alongside the lab team, except when they have demonstrated sufficient skills and training in molecular biology techniques.

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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with basic laboratory techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA extraction is preferred but not required.
• Prior experience with aquatic plants - natives or invasive species.
• Prior experience with database management.
• Prior 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. Learn more about retirement plans.

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.

EEO Statement

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