eDNA Research Assistant

About The Job

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented undergraduate research assistant to assist with DNA analysis of aquatic plant species. The successful candidate will work closely with the research team to perform various laboratory tasks related to DNA extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing preparation, and environmental DNA (eDNA) sample collection. The role provides valuable hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques and environmental science research. The employee will receive mentorship throughout the process, with guidance on troubleshooting and experimental protocols.

Key Responsibilities

• DNA Extraction: 10%
• Extract DNA from various aquatic plant tissues, ensuring high-quality DNA suitable for downstream applications.
• Gradient PCR: 10%
• Perform gradient PCR for each primer set.
• Document and analyze results for optimization of primer conditions.
• PCR Reactions: 40%
• C Conduct PCR tests on approximately 100 aquatic plant DNA samples using 31 sets of primers.
• R Record and analyze PCR results.
• MinION Sequencing Support: 20%
• Assist with the preparation of samples for MinION sequencing.
• Analyze sequencing results and provide support to the team during result interpretation.
• eDNA Sample Collection: 20%
• Participate in field collection of eDNA samples from various lakes in Minnesota.
• Process collected eDNA samples for subsequent PCR and sequencing analyses.

Training And Mentorship

The undergraduate employee will receive direct mentorship from the postdoc and graduate student working on this project. All necessary reagents, kits, and equipment will be provided by the lab, and guidance will be available for troubleshooting PCR and other laboratory techniques. The undergraduate will primarily work alongside the lab team, except when they have demonstrated sufficient skills and training in molecular biology techniques.

Work Environment

• Laboratory work with occasional fieldwork for sample collection in Minnesota.
• Flexible work hours depending on research needs, project timelines, and students' school work.

Applicant Pool Notice

This posting does not constitute an announcement of open positions. It is used to establish a pool of applicants for potential openings during calendar year 2026. Applications will be retained for consideration should openings occur. Applications will not be individually acknowledged upon receipt. Appointments may be renewable based on need, funding availability, and satisfactory performance.

Qualifications

• Preferred Qualifications:
• Prior experience with basic laboratory techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA extraction is preferred but not required.
• Prior experience with aquatic plants - natives or invasive species.
• Prior experience with database management.
• Prior experience with R.
• Necessary Qualifications:
• Current undergraduate student with a strong interest in molecular biology, biotechnology, environmental science, or related fields.
• Ability to follow protocols carefully, with attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to document experimental methods and results effectively and accurately.
• Willingness to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to learn quickly and take initiative in troubleshooting issues.
• Must be able to work in a laboratory setting and possibly in field conditions for eDNA sample collection.

About The Department

The Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology has about 20 faculty, 40 staff, 60 graduate students, 200 undergraduates, 1200 alumni, and many friends all working together to advance our knowledge of fisheries, wildlife, and conservation biology.

Pay And Benefits

Pay Range: $16.00 ; 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

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in molecular biology and aquatic plant research to Dhananjay Gotarkar at gotarkar@umn.edu. Please include 2 references (name, job affiliation and title, email, and phone number).

We look forward to working with an enthusiastic and eager-to-learn undergraduate who is excited about gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge environmental DNA research.

About University Of Minnesota

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.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is 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).