Food Science Research Assistant Jobs in Minnesota

The Hormel Institute is seeking to work with UMN undergraduate students who are interested in conducting human nutrition research. This role provides students with the opportunity to conduct diet interviews over the phone and/or work with researchers to investigate associations between nutrition and health. The research assistant can work remotely. This opportunity offers direct involvement in participant-facing activities. Students will gain hands-on training in dietary recall methods and applied public health nutrition strategies. It is strongly encouraged that successful candidates continue in this role for a minimum of two semesters. Flexibility in scheduling is essential, as dietary recalls must align with participant availability. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.
Focus of Job Responsibilities
• Participate in virtual training sessions on conducting 24-hour dietary recalls remotely (5%)
• Conduct dietary recalls via phone based on the participant's availability (40%)
• Support the launch and implementation of digital nutrition studies, including participant engagement (40%)
• Assist with study documentation, data entry, and organization of participant materials (10%)
• Participate in weekly research team meetings and discussion sessions (5%)
Work Profile
Profile 4, Fully Remote - Only occasionally visiting the office. Typically spends 4 or less days per month working in the office/lab on average. Your dedicated office space will be in your remote work location. The Hormel Institute management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
• Previous experience implementing or supporting nutrition interventions.
• Demonstrated ability to stay organized and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Able to collaborate effectively in a remote team environment and respond to shifting priorities as needed.
• Strong verbal communication skills, especially over the phone or Zoom.
• Comfortable interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience handling sensitive information with professionalism and empathy.
• Has experience with food preparation and exposure to different cuisines.
• Enrolled at the University of Minnesota.
Preferred Qualifications
• Familiarity with dietary assessment tools.
• Has worked in a customer-service position.
• Coursework in nutrition, dietetics, public health, or related fields.
Physical & Environmental Requirements
• Able to interview participants for 30 to 60 minutes.
• Has access to a computer and high-speed Internet.
• Has access to a private area with no one around to conduct diet recalls.
About the Department
The Hormel Institute is an independent biomedical research institution within the University of Minnesota's Research and Innovation Office. Established in 1942, our mission is to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences with applications in medicine and agriculture, specifically by understanding, treating, and controlling cancer and other chronic diseases. The Hormel Institute serves as a center of technical and educational expertise for the benefit of the local community, the State of Minnesota, and beyond. We are located in the uniquely diverse rural community of Austin, MN, conveniently only 35 miles from Rochester, MN, and 100 miles (1.5 hours) south of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The Hormel Institute is committed to fostering a work environment that promotes inclusive excellence, supportive employee practices, and encourages diversity of thought that drives innovation and creativity in our science.
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $18.00 per hour ; 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.
How To Apply
Student positions are a form of financial support while pursuing an education at the University of Minnesota.
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a 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 the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).