Nutrition Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Hormel Institute is seeking to work with nutrition researchers who are interested in conducting dietary interviews and/or assisting with intervention delivery. This role provides the employee with the opportunity to conduct diet interviews over the phone or deliver nutrition interventions. The research assistant can work remotely. This opportunity offers direct involvement in participant-facing activities. Successful candidates will gain hands-on training in dietary recall methods or applied public health nutrition strategies. It is strongly encouraged that successful candidates continue in this role for a year. Flexibility in scheduling is essential, as dietary recalls must be conducted based on 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%)
• Participate in research team meetings and discussion sessions (5%)
• Conduct dietary recalls via phone based on the participant's availability (up to 90%)
• Support the launch and delivery of digital nutrition studies, including participant engagement (up to 40%)
• Assist with study documentation, data entry, and organization of participant materials (up to 10%)
Flexible Work Profile
The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorses a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.
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's 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.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• 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.
• Reside in Minnesota.
• Previous interaction with participants in nutrition studies.
Preferred Qualifications
• Familiarity with dietary assessment tools.
• Coursework in nutrition, dietetics, public health, or related fields.
Physical & Environmental Requirements
• Able to speak to participants for up to 90 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.
Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans .
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 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).