Insect Research Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Please include the following required application materials:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

We are seeking a full-time (40 hrs./week) researcher to assist in research on the invasive weed garlic mustard and its insect biological control agents at the University of Minnesota. Garlic mustard, Alliaria petiolata, is an environmental weed in North America of Eurasian origin that invades native forest habitats. It has the capability to displace various native plant species, including spring ephemerals, annual and perennial herbaceous species, and seedlings of canopy trees. We are investigating biological control of garlic mustard using specialized European weevils. 
The successful candidate will assist with rearing plants and insects under quarantine, greenhouse, and field conditions and will participate in field releases and evaluation of biological control agents. The position will also include the opportunity to help with ecological research and propose individual projects within the general research topic. This position will be following protocols given to them but can suggest changes in protocol based on conditions.
Job Responsibilities:

• 25% Insect rearing
• 25% Plant rearing
• 20% Assist with field releases and monitoring
• 10% Assist with report writing
• 10% Assist in supervision of undergraduate research assistants
• 10% Laboratory organization/cleanup & other duties as assigned

Anticipated Start Date: 9/1

This position is in-person 5 days a week on the St. Paul campus.

Required Qualifications:

• B.S. in entomology, biology or a related field of study or a combination of education and
  relevant work experience to equal at least four years.
• At least 1 year of experience with plant and insect rearing.
• Ability to work well under supervision and independently.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to independently travel to field sites throughout
  southern Minnesota. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• M.S. in entomology, biology or a related field of study and at least two years of experience with plant and insect rearing, as well as experience with, or understanding of, biological control interactions.

The Department of Entomology at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, established in 1888, is a leading institution in insect science, renowned for its research, education, and outreach initiatives. Housed within the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), the department focuses on the systematics, biodiversity, biology, and ecology of insects and their relatives, emphasizing their significance to human welfare and environmental health.

Pay Range: $24.65 - $26.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment - Maximum four year appointment, but continuation is contingent upon annual satisfactory performance.

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.

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.

Please include the following required application materials:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

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

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

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.

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), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.