Student Tech Support Services

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Minnesota lab is seeking motivated undergraduate students to join our team. No prior lab experience is required. You will prepare solutions, buffers, and growth media, culture strains, and assist with molecular biology work such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, and transformation.

You will also support protein/proteomics sample prep and help keep the lab running smoothly, with 5–10 hours per week commitment during the semester.

Qualifications

• Registered UMN student and eligible to work on campus.
• No prior lab experience required; strong willingness to learn.
• Commit 5–10 hours per week during the semester.

Responsibilities

• Prepare solutions, buffers, and growth media using sterile technique.
• Culture and maintain fungal and bacterial strains.
• Assist with molecular biology work: DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, transformation.
• Support protein and proteomics sample preparation and keep the lab running smoothly.

Skills

Molecular biology concepts

Sterile technique

Laboratory safety

Education

Registered UMN student

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

PCR

Gel electrophoresis

DNA/RNA extraction

Cloning

Transformation

Job description

About the Job

Duties: Our lab studies fungal plant pathogens using molecular genetics, genomics, and proteomics approaches, and we are looking for motivated undergraduates to join our team and gain hands-on research experience. No prior lab experience is required! In this role, you will prepare solutions, buffers, and growth media, culture and maintain fungal and bacterial strains using sterile technique, and assist with molecular biology work such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, and transformation. You will also support protein and proteomics sample preparation, and help keep the lab running smoothly. We are looking for students with coursework in biology, genetics, microbiology, chemistry, or a related field who can commit 5-10 hours per week during the semester. You will gain hands-on training in core molecular biology and microbiology techniques, experience with the full research workflow, and mentorship from lab members.

Qualifications

Required: registered umn student, high school diploma or equivalent

About the Department

Since 1907 the Department of Plant Pathology has had a strong and positive impact on plant health, agricultural development, and ecosystem vitality on local, national, and international scales. https://plpa.cfans.umn.edu/

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $15.25; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Office of Student Health Benefits website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

Student workers are eligible to participate in the Student Health Benefit Plan, if they maintain 6 or more eligible course credits within a given semester. The same applies for Undergraduate Students, Graduate Assistants, Residents, Fellows and Interns.

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.