Temporary Data Analyst

University of Minnesota; Remote; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution is seeking a skilled Data Analyst to work remotely and support research in the field of epidemiology. Responsibilities include analytics and statistical modeling, data collection design, and preparation of publications. A BA/BS in a STEM-related field is required, with strong skills in R or UNIX. The position offers a pay range of $29.00 – $33.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience, along with comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Competitive wages

Paid holidays

Generous time off

Healthcare flexible spending accounts

Qualifications

• Strong proficiency in R or UNIX language.
• Ability to work with large datasets is essential.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytics and statistical modeling for research.
• Define data requirements and design data collection processes.
• Assist in preparation of materials for publications.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistical modeling

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

BA/BS in STEM-related field

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

R

UNIX

STATA

Job description

About the Job

Dr. Sullivan's lab in the Division of Molecular Pathology and Genomics in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Data Analyst. Dr. Sullivan's research lies at the intersection of environmental and molecular epidemiology, combining laboratory science and epidemiologic techniques to uncover the complexities of human health and disease. Her work focuses on the interplay between social determinants of health, genetics, epigenetics, and environmental risk factors, with a particular emphasis on trace and toxic metal biomarkers and tobacco exposure. The current projects involve large population‑based cohorts with extensive biomarker data (metals, genotyping arrays, DNA methylation arrays) and outcomes of interest including chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and lung cancer.

Work Arrangement

• Position is expected to work remotely more than 50% of the time. Dedicated office space will be in the remote work location.
• Department retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

Key Responsibilities

• 80% Perform analytics and statistical modeling on existing data for the purpose of scientific research.
  • Examine and identify data patterns and trends to aid research aims.
  • Perform data analysis and generate reports as needed.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to ensure research compliance.
  • Manage data from various sources for reporting purposes.
  • Identify options to increase efficiency and automation of data analysis processes.
  • Stay current with data analysis tools and techniques, particularly in R, Unix, and epigenetic tools.
• 10% Define data requirements and perform/design data collection, processing, cleaning, analysis, ad‑hoc reporting, modeling, predictive modeling, and/or visualization.
  • Assist in the design and implementation of data collection procedures.
  • Remain current with data analysis tools and techniques, particularly in R and STATA.
• 10% Presentation and Publication Support.
  • Assist in preparation of materials for presentations and publications, including data visualization, statistical analysis results, and data summaries.
  • Aid in the creation of visually engaging and informative charts, graphs, and slides.
  • Collaborate with research teams to ensure the accuracy and clarity of presentation materials.
  • Support the development of manuscripts for publication by contributing to data analysis and interpretation.
• Other duties assigned.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS degree in a STEM‑related field (e.g., Data Science, Engineering, Epidemiology, Statistics, Biostatistics, Physics) OR a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least four years.
• Strong proficiency in one of the following data analysis tools: R, UNIX language, or bioinformatics tools.
• Strong proficiency in working with large data sets.
• Knowledge of data cleaning.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Detail‑oriented.
• Highly organized.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree.
• At least 3 years’ experience working with large, complex datasets. Strong knowledge and record of applying statistical tools to analyze data.
• Knowledge of quality assurance best practices.
• Proficiency with large‑omics data analysis is preferred.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $29.00 – $33.00/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 0.50 FTE

Position Type: Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor Represented Staff; Temporary

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• 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

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online. Follow the instructions to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be uploaded after application by accessing the “My Job Applications” page and uploading them in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section. To request an accommodation during the application process, e‑mail [e-mail] or call (612) 624‑8647.

Diversity

The University of Minnesota 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.