Rsch Pro 1-Plant Science - 75% Appointment

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 23,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Tuition benefit program

Low-cost medical, dental and pharmacy

Job summary

The University of Minnesota invites applications for a research assistant to study the project entitled “Enlarge camelina and pennycress seeds for its utility as a commodity oilseed crop.” The role includes laboratory experiments, plant biology work, and managing lab operations to support seed development and data collection.

Responsibilities include overseeing undergraduate assistants, reporting results, and presenting findings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, genetics or biochemistry or equivalent experience.
• Courses in biology, chemistry, molecular biology, genetics or cell biology.
• Ability to record, analyze and present data; troubleshoot problems independently.
• Experience with nucleic acid manipulation and RT-PCR is a plus.

Responsibilities

• 60%: Conduct project research on plants and help enlarge camelina and pennycress seeds for usability as oilseed crops.
• 20%: Assist collaborators with data collection and data management decisions.
• 20%: Perform other lab duties, mentor undergraduate and graduate students, prepare and deliver presentations, and engage in public outreach.

Skills

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Supervision

Lab staff training

Education

Bachelor's degree in molecular biology/genetics/biochemistry

Introductory biology/chemistry/genetics/cell biology courses

Tools

RT‑PCR

Gel electrophoresis

Nucleic acid manipulation

Cloning

Primer/probe design

Job description

About the Job

The candidate will study on the project entitled “Enlarge camelina and pennycress seeds for its utility as a commodity oilseed crop”. Both plants have a two-stage seed developmental path like Arabidopsis: early endosperm proliferation and late embryo growth to replace the endosperm. Early endosperm proliferation significantly impacts the mature seed size since it enforces a space limitation and serves as nutrient supplies for the subsequent embryo development. We will manipulate early endosperm proliferation and achieve increased mature seed mass. First, we will promote endosperm proliferation by overexpressing two endosperm proliferation genes. Second, we will prolong endosperm proliferation by editing one suppressor of endosperm proliferation.

Summary

About the Job

The candidate will study on the project entitled “Enlarge camelina and pennycress seeds for its utility as a commodity oilseed crop”. Both plants have a two-stage seed developmental path like Arabidopsis: early endosperm proliferation and late embryo growth to replace the endosperm. Early endosperm proliferation significantly impacts the mature seed size since it enforces a space limitation and serves as nutrient supplies for the subsequent embryo development. We will manipulate early endosperm proliferation and achieve increased mature seed mass. First, we will promote endosperm proliferation by overexpressing two endosperm proliferation genes. Second, we will prolong endosperm proliferation by editing one suppressor of endosperm proliferation.

The candidate will help enable this research by performing various molecular and cellular experiments and engaging in laboratory management, including oversight of the laboratory supplies, maintenance of a safe and secure workplace, and supervision of undergraduate laboratory assistants.

• 60%: Conduct project research on plants. Help enlarge camelina and pennycress seeds to see there utility as a commodity oilseed crop.
• 20%: Assist collaborators with data collection and data management decisions.
• 20%: Perform other lab duties, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, the preparation and delivery of presentations, and public outreach.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, genetics or biochemistry, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least four years.

Bachelor’s courses in general biology, chemistry, molecular biology, genetics, cell biology or equivalent classes.

Preferred Requirements

Ability to record, analyze, present data and to troubleshoot problems independently. Proficiency to hire, train, and supervise undergraduate laboratory assistants.

Undergraduate research experiences with molecular biology in academic labs engaged in nucleic acid manipulation, cloning and mutagenesis, primer and probe design, RT-PCR, and gel electrophoresis is a plus.

Pay And Benefits

Pay Range: $20.32 hr. depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75% Appointment (30 hours a week)

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University Offers a Comprehensive Benefits Package That Includes

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

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.

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 University Of Minnesota

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 Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.