Wet Lab Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

This position supports multi-omics research in the Division of Neonatology, contributing to biofluid (i.e. dried blood spot, urine samples, culture isolates) work for neonatal sepsis biomarker discovery, as well as coordination of an industry-partnered infectious disease projects in partnership with Dr. Beth Thielen in the Division of Pediatrics Infectious Diseases. 

The Researcher will support recruitment/data tracking, sample logistics, and regulatory documentation, while collaborating with both local and international partners (including colleagues in Nigeria). 

Work will involve:

1. Performing a variety of molecular and biochemical analyses on human and/or animal specimens including flow cytometry, proteomics, nanopore sequencing genomics using standard operating procedures.
2. Keeping detailed records of all experiments, and procedures in laboratory notebooks, databases, spreadsheets, and web-based applications. 
3. Conducting background literature research on relevant topics including current methods, gaps in the literature and next steps with the expectation that the researcher will attend relevant lab meetings (e.g. neonatology research lab meetings, Thielen lab meetings).

This is a one to two-year full-time position but can be extended depending on satisfactory performance, the availability of funds and/or work for the position and meeting standard University employment requirements. 

This position is not eligible for H-1B or employment-based permanent residency (Green Card) sponsorship.
Responsibilities:

50% Bench Support

Bench support for biofluid sample processing (LC-MS/MS proteomics workflow, nanopore sequencing genomics sample analysis, maintaining cell lines as needed, etc.). With oversight, the researcher will assist with the design and execution of multi-step experiments and maintain a detailed laboratory notebook, assist with troubleshooting protocols, work with the PI to interpret findings, and prepare data for publication in an assigned area. The researcher will aid in the solution of a research problem by researching relevant literature, contacting other researchers in the field, and collaborating with other labs.  

35% Project Coordination

Project coordination and data/recruitment tracking for industry-partnered projects which may include participant recruitment and coordination in conjunction with Peds-RSS, Coordination with international collaborators (Nigeria-based project) including assisting with IRB/IBC protocol documentation and compliance, assist with order/delivery logistics and day to day laboratory operations; must be willing to travel to international sites via University of Minnesota approved routes.

15% Other Duties

Perform additional duties as assigned.

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with a major or minor in a biomedical science (Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology) or an equivalent combination of education and relevant research experience totaling four years.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with ability to manage sample and data tracking logs.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated hands-on wet-lab experience (e.g., experience with standard mammalian tissues culture techniques, molecular biology techniques (i.e. PCR, gel electrophoresis, sample preparation/purification techniques, flow cytometry).
• Experience with analysis of omics data which may include sequence assembly and analysis, use and/or development of data analysis and/or data visualization tools, e.g. R.
• Experience coordinating with international research collaborators or multi-site teams, particularly in global health/LMIC settings. 
• Familiarity with regulatory protocol processes (IRB/IBC). 

This is a research position within a new laboratory at the interface of global health, neonatal sepsis, and multi-omics, studying mechanisms by which infections due to bacteria, viruses, and fungi cause disease such as sepsis or worsening organ disease (i.e., bronchopulmonary dysplasia) in neonates, infants, and children.

Our lab seeks to foster an inclusive environment in which members from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to develop their skills of scientific inquiry. A successful candidate will be a curious, self-motivated team player.

The position offers the opportunity to interact with physician-scientists and scientists alike, and develop skills in a variety of research techniques, experimental approaches, and research questions relevant to human health, including primary human biofluid analysis, immunology, and proteomics.

The researcher will be encouraged to present and publish their research and apply for research grants or awards if the opportunity arises.

Pay Range: $50,000 - $60,000/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.

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.

The University of Minnesota Medical School

Committed to innovation and diversity, the Medical School educates physicians, scientists, and health professionals; generates knowledge and treatments; and cares for patients and communities with compassion and respect. We value excellence, inclusiveness, collaboration, and discovery.
The mission of the regional campus located in Duluth is to be a national leader in improving healthcare access and outcomes in rural Minnesota and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities. In partnership with CentraCare, the regional campus in St. Cloud offers a wide range of patient experiences throughout students education in Greater Minnesota and prepares them to become exceptional clinicians and leaders for rural and immigrant populations.

Founded in 1888, the University of Minnesota Medical School has three campuses.  A four-year MD program and the MD/PhD program are located on the Twin Cities campus in addition to MD programs at regional campuses in Duluth and St. Cloud.