Environmental Scientist — Field & Molecular Bio Specialist

University of Minnesota; Duluth (MN); On-site; USD 46,000 - 57,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Paid holidays & time off

Tuition benefits

Healthcare plans

FSAs and HSA contributions

Wellbeing program

Retirement plans

PSLF opportunity

Financial counseling

Employee assistance program

Job summary

The Natural Resources Research Institute at the University of Minnesota, Duluth, seeks an environmental scientist to advance environmental monitoring, water and wastewater tech development, and molecular biology projects. The role emphasizes lab safety, quality control, and research integrity while mentoring junior staff.

Responsibilities include molecular biology analyses, chemical measurements, field campaigns, and data management across multiple projects, with a strong focus on safety and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, or related field with ≥2 years of relevant experience or equivalent
• Laboratory/research experience and strong safety practices
• Field sampling experience and environmental monitoring familiarity
• Ability to work outdoors for long hours in varying weather
• Organized, self-motivated and safety-minded
• Valid U.S. driver's license and clean driving record

Responsibilities

• Execute and optimize molecular biology workflows for environmental samples
• Perform chemical assays and maintain QA/QC standards
• Lead field sampling, monitoring and site maintenance
• Contribute quality data to reports and publications
• Maintain laboratory safety, troubleshoot instrumentation and manage inventory
• Train junior staff and student workers in routine tasks

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

DNA/RNA extraction

PCR/qPCR/dPCR

Python/R

Team collaboration

Laboratory safety

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Ion chromatography

HPLC

Spectrophotometry

Job description

The Natural Resources Research Institute at the University of Minnesota, Duluth, seeks an environmental scientist to advance environmental monitoring, water and wastewater tech development, and molecular biology projects. The role emphasizes lab safety, quality control, and research integrity while mentoring junior staff.

Responsibilities include molecular biology analyses, chemical measurements, field campaigns, and data management across multiple projects, with a strong focus on safety and