Temporary Researcher - Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology

We are seeking a motivated, organized, and enthusiastic Research Technician to join our team. The successful candidate will be a crucial member of our group, providing broad technical and operational support for our ongoing research projects. The role involves working closely with the Principal Investigator, research staff, and graduate students.

Key Responsibilities
Experimental Support (70%):
o Perform and troubleshoot a variety of molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, qPCR, cloning, and western blotting.
o Conduct mammalian cell culture, including maintaining cell lines, performing transfections, and preparing cell lysates.
o Assist with experiments using mouse models of metabolic disease, including colony management, genotyping, and performing metabolic analyses (e.g., glucose and insulin tolerance tests, tissue harvesting).

Data Management & Analysis (10%):
o Maintain a detailed and accurate electronic lab notebook.
o Perform basic data analysis and prepare figures for presentations and publications.

Laboratory Operations & Management (20%):
o Manage and organize lab inventory, including ordering reagents and consumables.
o Prepare common lab solutions and reagents.
o Ensure the proper maintenance of laboratory equipment.
o Help maintain a safe and clean laboratory environment in accordance with institutional guidelines.

Required:
o A high school diploma.
o Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
o A strong work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and a collaborative mindset.
o Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Preferred (but not required):
o A demonstrated ability to learn new techniques and concepts quickly.

About Our Lab

The Verkerke lab is a dynamic and collaborative research group dedicated to understanding the fundamental molecular mechanisms of metabolism. Our work focuses on how nutrient sensing pathways contribute to metabolic disease. We use a combination of cutting-edge techniques in cell biology, molecular biology, and mouse genetics to tackle major questions in metabolic health and disease. We are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and rigorous scientific environment where every member has the opportunity to grow intellectually and professionally.

Pay Range: $15.25 to $16.00/ 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.

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.