Microscopy Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Summary of Position
The Diezmann lab at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is seeking a Researcher/Lab Manager. As a researcher, the candidate will pursue experiments to understand how DNA repair is coordinated along meiotic chromosomes, including single-molecule microscopy in live nuclei, high-resolution imaging, quantitative data analysis, and the design and maintenance of transgenic C. elegans strains. As a lab manager, the candidate will oversee wet lab operations, microscopy resources, and ordering/budgeting. This position is highly collaborative, with ample opportunities to mentor and learn from lab members, and to publish and present experimental results. The ideal candidate will be excited to help build a lab applying cutting-edge techniques to uncover new mechanisms in cellular biophysics and chromosome biology.
About our Lab 
The Diezmann lab works to understand how biological signals emerge from subcellular molecular dynamics. We use high-resolution microscopy and genome engineering to study how competing DNA repair pathways are balanced during meiosis to ensure the faithful transmission of genetic material while creating genetic diversity in each generation. Our lab introduced the use of single-molecule tracking microscopy in live meiotic nuclei in C. elegans, revealing how protein diffusion, binding, and accumulation transduces signals along meiotic chromosomes. Our lab values mutual support, technical mastery, and critical reasoning, and our work supports advances in human reproductive health, crop breeding, and diseases of DNA repair such as cancer. 
Essential Functions 
70% Research Experimentation
Single-molecule tracking microscopy, high-resolution imaging, image and statistical data analysis in MATLAB and related pipelines. Design genetic constructs, perform genetic and manipulation of C. elegans. Maintain laboratory records, prepare figures, and communicate results.
30% Lab Manager Operations
Administration of ordering and budgeting. Prepare media and other stocks, maintain databases and protocols, safety training and compliance, optimizing lab processes, training new lab members.
 

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials

Required qualifications: BA/BS degree in biology, chemistry or related fields plus at least four years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least 8 years. At least 4 years of experience with quantitative biological microscopy.   
Preferred Qualifications: Masters degree in biology, chemistry or related fields. Experience in genetics, biochemistry, physical chemistry, and/or cellular biology. Experience with Matlab, R, Python or other high-level data analysis software. Experience with C. elegans, molecular biology, and/or CRISPR-Cas9 genome engineering techniques. Demonstrated skills in process and inventory management.

The Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development encompasses a broad range of biological disciplines, including the storage and expression of information, its translation into the workings of individual cells, and the assembly of cells into tissues and organ systems.

Pay Range: $29.00 ($60,320) - $34.00 ($70,720); depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented 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.

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.

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.