Professional Researcher Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Job duties 

Working in a faculty research lab in Kolthoff Hall with the group of Prof. Marc Hillmyer. Approximate workload distribution:

1. 50%: Laboratory work involving modern polymer characterization. Maintaining lab equipment. Manifest chemical waste. Troubleshoot instrumentation. Work with undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers to acquire needed data.
2. 30%: Lead group contacts and experts on research instrumentation support, maintenance, and repair, including training of other researchers.
3. 10%: Assist in laboratory safety protocols and the development of standard operating procedures.
4. 10%: Write/discuss summaries of findings. Assist in literature review and grant proposal preparation. Other duties as assigned.

This is a temporary position with an expected end date of 6/30/2027. 

Work Environment: This is an in-person position working on the University of Minnesotas East Bank campus. 

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm

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

Required qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, polymer science and engineering or related college courses and work experience in a laboratory setting totaling at least four years in combination.

Preferred qualifications 

• Advanced degree in chemistry, chemical engineering or materials science.
• Experience with carrying out laboratory research in the molecular, morphological, and mechanical characterization of polymers or related experience in adjacent fields.
• Experience with ring-open metathesis of cyclic olefins in the presence of chain transfer agents, and hydrogenation of the product to telechelic polyolefin, using high pressure reactors.
• Experience with research instrumentation operation, maintenance, and repair.
• Scientific writing experience (research summaries, manuscripts for submission to journals) is also desirable.
   

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Minnesota (UMN) provides a world-class education through classroom teaching and cutting-edge research. As a central, core discipline in science and engineering, chemistry is critical for solving society's most important problems and making significant positive impacts on human health, energy, and the environment. Our department of  has been a national and international leader throughout its history. A wide range of companies and academic institutions from across the world hire our graduates and collaborate with us on research. Department of Chemistry alumni have enormous societal impact as academicians, K-12 teachers, scientists and managers in industrial and government laboratories, lawyers, public policy advocates, entrepreneurs, and in a diverse array of other fields. The department has 43 faculty member, 45 staff members, 60 post-doctoral associates and 230 graduate students.

Pay Range: $49,587.20 - $65,707.20 per year; 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.

Required application materials: Resume and 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, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.