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Brain Research Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Research Fellow Radiology

Rochester, MN

$49K - $67K/yr

Analyses will involve assessing neuroinflammation PET in specific regions of the brain and at the ... Research Fellow is appropriate for individuals who have completed no more than one prior ...

Research Fellow Radiology

Rochester, MN · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

Analyses will involve assessing neuroinflammation PET in specific regions of the brain and at the ... Research Fellow is appropriate for individuals who have completed no more than one prior ...

Research Fellow Radiology

Rochester, MN · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

Analyses will involve assessing neuroinflammation PET in specific regions of the brain and at the ... Research Fellow is appropriate for individuals who have completed no more than one prior ...

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Brain Research information

See Minnesota salary details

$78.4K

$97.8K

$132.7K

How much do brain research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for brain research in Minnesota is $97,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,300.00 and $113,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is brain research?

Brain research is the scientific study of the brain and its functions, aiming to understand how the brain works at molecular, cellular, and behavioral levels. Researchers in this field investigate topics such as memory, learning, perception, neurological diseases, and mental health conditions. This research helps develop treatments for brain disorders and enhances our understanding of how the nervous system influences behavior and cognition. Techniques used include brain imaging, electrophysiology, and genetic analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in brain research?

To thrive in Brain Research, a strong background in neuroscience, biology, or psychology—typically with an advanced degree (PhD or MD)—is essential. Proficiency with laboratory techniques, brain imaging technologies (like MRI or EEG), and statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or MATLAB) is commonly required. Critical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills help researchers excel in this complex field. These competencies are vital to ensure rigorous scientific investigation, accurate data interpretation, and meaningful contributions to understanding the brain.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in brain research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in brain research often encounter challenges such as navigating complex experimental designs, securing consistent funding, and staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including neuroscientists, data analysts, and clinicians—can help overcome technical and analytical hurdles. Additionally, actively participating in conferences and workshops supports knowledge exchange, while seeking mentorship and networking can provide guidance on career advancement and grant writing.

What is the difference between Brain Research vs Neuroscientist?

AspectBrain ResearchNeuroscientist
Required CredentialsTypically a PhD or Master's in neuroscience, psychology, or related fieldsUsually a PhD in neuroscience, biology, or psychology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, medical centersResearch institutions, universities, healthcare facilities
Industry UsageAcademic research, pharmaceutical companies, government agenciesAcademic, clinical, and industry research roles

Brain Research refers to the broader field of studying the brain's structure and functions, often involving various roles and research projects. Neuroscientist is a specific job title for professionals conducting research or clinical studies on the nervous system. While both require advanced degrees and often work in similar environments, Brain Research encompasses a wide range of research activities, whereas Neuroscientist is a designated role within that field.

How much do brain researchers make?

Brain researchers, often holding advanced degrees such as a Ph.D. or neuroscience-related certifications, typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Salaries can be higher for those in senior roles, research institutions, or with specialized skills in neuroimaging or data analysis.

How to get into brain research?

To pursue a career in brain research, typically a bachelor's degree in neuroscience, psychology, biology, or a related field is required, followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced research roles. Gaining experience through internships, research assistant positions, and developing skills in laboratory techniques and data analysis are important steps. Familiarity with neuroimaging tools and programming languages like MATLAB or Python can also be beneficial.

What does a brain researcher do?

A brain researcher studies the structure and function of the brain to understand how it influences behavior, cognition, and neurological processes. They often conduct experiments using techniques like neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and data analysis, typically working in laboratories or research institutions. Strong knowledge of neuroscience, biology, and research methods is essential for this role.

What jobs allow you to study the brain?

Jobs that allow you to study the brain include neuroscientist, neuropsychologist, cognitive scientist, and neuroimaging technician. These roles typically require a background in psychology, biology, or neuroscience, and often involve working in research labs, hospitals, or academic institutions using tools like MRI or EEG to analyze brain function.
Infographic showing various Brain Research job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,784 per year, or $47 per hour.

Clinical Research Coordinator

University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, MN

$50K - $56K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

About the Job
 

The Center for Developmental NeuroImaging (CDNI) is seeking a Research Professional I to assist with the data collection of various clinical research projects amongst the principal investigators. A successful applicant must be detail-oriented, outcome-oriented, have prior experience working with infants and/or toddlers, work effectively with a team, and able to communicate clearly in a collaborative environment with a diverse range of research topics and disciplines. This position is not eligible for remote work.
The CDNI is housed at the Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain at the University of Minnesota. Our work focuses on advancing the understanding of brain development in health and disease. We are an interdisciplinary team of researchers trying to:

  • Understand basic principles of brain functioning across development (i.e. figure out how the brain works).
  • Learn about how neuropsychiatric and other brain-based disorders develop and progress over time.
  • Contribute to the prevention and treatment of brain-based disorders.
  • Engage underrepresented communities in all aspects of academic medicine and research.

To learn more about CDNI and current research studies, please visit the website: https://innovation.umn.edu/developmental-cognition-and-neuroimaging-lab/
Please upload a cover letter and CV/resume. Your application will not be considered until all components of the application are complete. Review of applications is ongoing, and the position will remain open until the posting is removed.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Clinical Data Collection Support (60%)

  • Utilize existing internal and external registries to identify potential participants for research studies.
  • Conduct phone screens with participants to determine eligibility for the studies.
  • Maintain communication with research families that includes but is not limited to, retention efforts, visit reminders, scheduling, etc.  
  • Assist with the scheduling and conduction of research visits involving MRI scans, biospecimen collection, and cognitive/behavioral tasks.
  • Reliably enter study data into online databases.
  • Maintain conformity with the established protocol, Good Clinical Practice, and University of Minnesota policies. 
  • Support or lead necessary study visits that align with variable family schedules (early morning, late evening, and/or weekends).
  • Organize study materials for visits.

Documentation and Administrative Tasks (30%)

  • Maintain detailed and adequate research records
  • Provide up-to-date tracking of study recruitment and enrollment efforts
  • Document best practices for various research activities to ensure they are carried out in a standardized manner
  • Edit and generate SOPs for study activities

Other Lab Duties (10%)

  • Attend mandatory center, lab and team meetings
  • Share feedback and assist other lab members when they are stuck on a project
  • Collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group
  • Adherence to all applicable University policies, procedures and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in University laboratories remain the property of the University.
Qualifications
 

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials.

Required Qualifications

  • BA/BS or a combination of related education and work experience to equal 4 years.
  • Sufficient computer knowledge with Google suite and Microsoft office.
  • Ability to multi-task without losing attention to detail.
  • Previous work experience with infants and/or toddlers (can be in a non-research setting).

Preferred Qualifications

  • Interest in neuroscience, psychology, neuroimaging and/or human development.
  • Openness to work with a diverse age range of human participants ages 0-80.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Familiarity with HIPAA.
  • Willingness and ability to learn in a collaborative environment from various trainers and training programs.
About the Department
 

The Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain (MIDB) is dedicated to fostering the healthy brain function of children across the lifespan with the mission to set and maintain a healthy trajectory for all children toward positive life outcomes through early neurobehavioral and mental health assessment, innovative targeted interventions, informed policy-making, compassionate child-advocacy, and community education. The MIDBs mission of basic and clinical research in the field of neurobehavioral development is supported by its Neuroimaging core, which fosters collaborations within departments at the University of Minnesota and across institutions to build teams with the highest possible degree of expertise.

Pay and Benefits
 

Pay Range: $50,000-$56,000 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service

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
  • Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

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.

How To Apply
 

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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.