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Exercise Science Research Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Sr Applied Scientist I

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$118K - $177K/yr

Employees in this role exercise strong technical leadership, mentor less-experienced scientists ... Science, Research, and Technology Organization: NextEra Analytics, Inc Relocation Provided: Yes, if ...

Employees in this role exercise technical leadership, influence solution design, and collaborate ... Science, Research, and Technology Organization: NextEra Analytics, Inc Relocation Provided: Yes, if ...

... exercise discretion and sound judgement • Possess decision-making, negotiation and influencing ... Thermo Fisher Scientific values the health and wellbeing of our employees. We support and encourage ...

Wellness Coach

Rochester, MN · On-site

$30.54 - $45.87/hr

Participates as member to collaborative research teams that examine relationships among resiliency ... exercise science, health education, health promotion, public health). Five years' experience in ...

Demonstrated ability to exercise discretion and sound judgement * Possess decision-making ... When you join Thermo Fisher Scientific, you become part of a global team that values passion ...

New

Wellness Coach

Rochester, MN

$15 - $20.25/hr

Participates as member to collaborative research teams that examine relationships among resiliency ... exercise science, health education, health promotion, public health). Five years' experience in ...

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Showing results 1-20

Exercise Science Research information

See Minnesota salary details

$11.1K

$75.4K

$85.8K

How much do exercise science research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science research in Minnesota is $75,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,300.00 and $83,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is exercise science research?

Exercise science research involves the systematic study of how physical activity, exercise, and sports impact human health, performance, and disease prevention. Researchers in this field investigate a range of topics including biomechanics, physiology, nutrition, psychology, and motor control. The goal is to understand how exercise affects the body and mind so that effective programs and recommendations can be developed for individuals and populations. Exercise science research is crucial for advancing knowledge in sports performance, rehabilitation, and overall health promotion.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise science researcher?

To thrive as an Exercise Science Researcher, you need a solid background in physiology, biomechanics, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree such as a master's or PhD in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (like SPSS or R), and research methodologies is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are crucial for designing studies and sharing findings. These skills ensure rigorous research practices, accurate data interpretation, and impactful contributions to the advancement of exercise science.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in exercise science research, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in Exercise Science Research often encounter challenges such as recruiting and retaining study participants, ensuring data reliability, and managing complex interdisciplinary projects. Building strong relationships with local communities and athletic organizations can improve participant engagement. Additionally, collaborating closely with colleagues from nutrition, physiology, and medical backgrounds helps ensure comprehensive research design and analysis. Staying current with advancements in technology and research methodology also supports high-quality, impactful studies.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Research vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise Science ResearchExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science or related field; research experience often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Physiology; certification (e.g., ACSM) often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, universities, research institutionsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, sports facilities
Employer & IndustryAcademic institutions, research organizations, government agenciesHealthcare providers, fitness industry, sports teams
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in exercise scienceCareer as a practicing exercise physiologist

Exercise Science Research focuses on conducting studies to advance knowledge in exercise and human performance, often within academic or research settings. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists apply exercise principles directly to improve health and fitness in clinical or fitness environments. Both roles require related educational backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

How to become an exercise science researcher?

To become an exercise science researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required, followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced research roles. Developing skills in research methods, data analysis, and laboratory techniques, along with experience in scientific studies, is essential for success in this field.

What else can I do with an exercise science research degree?

An exercise science research degree prepares individuals for careers in academia, sports performance, rehabilitation, and health promotion. Graduates can work as exercise physiologists, research scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, or health educators, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree also provides a foundation for advanced study or roles involving data analysis, program development, and clinical assessment.

What jobs can you get with a PhD in exercise science?

A PhD in exercise science qualifies individuals for research positions in academia, government agencies, or private industry, focusing on human performance, rehabilitation, or health promotion. Graduates often work as university professors, research scientists, exercise physiologists, or consultants, utilizing skills in data analysis, experimental design, and advanced knowledge of physiology and biomechanics.

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Research jobs in Minnesota?

For Exercise Science Research jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Science Research jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Research jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Exercise Science Research jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Exercise Science Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Science Research job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,360 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Sport & Exercise Psychology Assistant/Associate Professor - Kinesiology

Minneapolis, MN

University of Minnesota
Education • 10K+ employees

$87K - $97K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

About the Job
 

The School of Kinesiology in the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota seeks to fill a tenure-tenure track Assistant / Associate Professor position in sport and exercise psychology. The successful candidate will have education, expertise, and research accomplishments in sport and/or exercise psychology.  Candidates with expertise in sports medicine and/or rehabilitation psychology will also be considered. The candidate will join an interdisciplinary department committed to excellence in faculty development and mentoring in research, teaching, and service. Successful candidates will demonstrate alignment and ability to build interdisciplinary collaborations across the School of Kinesiologys core areas and research centers and across the University of Minnesota. Candidates will also identify opportunities for alignment with robust resources available within the College of Education and Human Development and across the University of Minnesota that support excellence across research, teaching, and service (e.g., Research Methodology Consulting Center, Center for Educational Innovation, Office for Public Engagement). The candidate would have evidence of commitment to mentoring and training graduate students from diverse backgrounds. This is a 9-month, full-time appointment located on the Minneapolis campus with a target start date of August 30, 2027. 

The budgeted salary range for this position is $87,000 - $97,000 for the rank of Assistant Professor and $103,000 - $113,000 for the rank of Associate Professor. Final salary offers are dependent on the candidate's experience, skills, and internal equity within the department. 

Job Responsibilities

This position will be responsible for: 

  • Establishing and maintaining a nationally and internationally recognized independent research program in area of expertise. 

  • Securing internal and external funding for research agenda related to area of expertise. 

  • Teaching undergraduate and graduate courses and developing curriculum in areas of expertise within sport, exercise, sport medicine, and/or rehabilitation psychology and more broadly kinesiology. 

  • Recruiting, supervising, and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in sport, exercise, sport medicine, and/or rehabilitation psychology.

  • Disseminating research through publications and presentations in the scientific community.

  • Providing service to the school, university, community, and profession. 

Qualifications
 

Required Qualifications 

  • An earned doctorate, Ph.D. preferred, in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Psychology, or a closely related field with an emphasis in sport, exercise, sport medicine, and/or rehabilitation psychology. ABD candidates will be considered (Assistant Professor).

  • Record of emerging (Assistant Professor) or sustained (Associate Professor) publication and research productivity in sport, exercise, sport medicine, and/or rehabilitation psychology.

  • Evidence of emerging (Assistant Professor) or sustained (Associate Professor) national and international scholarly reputation in sport, exercise, sport medicine, and/or rehabilitation psychology. 

  • Evidence of potential (Assistant Professor) or documented experience (Associate Professor) of effective teaching skills for graduate and/or undergraduate instruction related to sport, exercise, sport medicine, and/or rehabilitation psychology. 

  • Evidence of effective collaboration with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds, and identities

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Potential for (Assistant Professor) or documented evidence of (Associate Professor) success in contributing to academic program development.

  • Demonstration of emerging (Assistant Professor) or current (Associate Professor) extramural grant support. 

  • Evidence of potential (Assistant Professor) or documented (Associate Professor) mentoring of graduate students.

  • Potential for (Assistant Professor) or documented evidence of (Associate Professor) of internal and/or professional leadership

About the Department
 

The School of Kinesiology at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities has a rich tradition of research and scholarship, combined with excellence in teaching and service. The mission of the School is to enrich the quality of human life by expanding, applying, and disseminating the body of knowledge germane to human movement, physical activity, and their applied systems. The Schools core values of excellence and belonging guide our research, learning, and internal culture to create a positive space for our faculty, staff, and students. Complete information on the School can be found on the website, http://www.cehd.umn.edu/kin. 

About the College 

The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), the third largest college at the University, contributes to a just and sustainable future through engagement with the local and global communities to enhance human learning and development at all stages of the life span. We know diversity is necessary to do our best work and foster our humanity. Thats why the CEHD community is collectively dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment, embracing and celebrating all identities of our students, staff, and faculty. These values are also a moral imperative requiring continuous proactive measures and a firm stance against prejudice, discrimination, and systemic injustice. https://www.cehd.umn.edu/ 

Pay and Benefits
 

Pay Range: $87,000 - $97,000 for the rank of Assistant Professor and $103,000 - $113,000 for the rank of Associate Professor; depending on education/qualifications/experience 

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A 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
  • 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 at https://hr.umn.edu/jobs.  Application Deadline: The initial screening of applications will begin on 10/9/2026.
 

This position requires that you attach the following documents as PDFs: 

  1. cover letter 

  2. detailed CV 

  3. Names and contact information of three references who have firsthand experience working with you 

  4. Statement of teaching (1-2 pages) 

  5. Statement of research (1-2 pages) 
     

The teaching and research statements should include experience and interests. References will not be contacted until final rounds of evaluations, and applicants will be notified prior to this. Finalists may be asked to provide additional materials upon request. 

Inquiries

Address questions about the position to Dr. Emily Kringle, ekringle@umn.edu (Search Committee Chair). For general questions about the application process, contact Debbie Janis, djanis@umn.edu. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612)-624-UOHR (8687). 

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. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. 

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, non