Research Professional 1, Microbiology

Research Professional 1, Microbiology (8351MC) Vanderpool Lab, Department of Plant and Microbial Biology

Duties and Responsibilities

40% - Microbial culture and phage isolation Perform anaerobic and aerobic bacterial culture of oral and environmental microorganisms. Support phage isolation workflows including preparation of host cultures, plaque assays, and harvest of phage lysates. Contribute to troubleshooting and protocol refinement as directed by the PI or senior lab members.

20% - Molecular biology Perform DNA and RNA extraction from microbial cultures and complex samples. Assist with PCR, gel electrophoresis, and preparation of samples for downstream sequencing and analysis. May assist with library preparation or other molecular techniques as projects require.

20% - Human and environmental sample processing and sample management Process biological samples from human participants and environmental sources (e.g., oral microbiome samples such as dental plaque and saliva) according to established protocols. Tasks include centrifugation, aliquoting, and cryopreservation; maintenance of frozen sample inventories; and preparation of samples for distribution to collaborating labs. Accurate and complete documentation is required.

10% - Lab maintenance and general support Maintain lab stocks of media, buffers, and consumables. Monitor and maintain equipment including anaerobic chambers, centrifuges, and ultra-low temperature freezers. Assist with reagent preparation and general lab upkeep.

10% - Other duties as assigned Provide flexible support across lab projects. Contribute to protocol documentation; may assist with training of new lab members.

This is a two-year, temporary position with an expected end date of June 11, 2028 with options to extend the role if grant funding allows.

Required Qualifications

• B.A./B.S. in Microbiology, Biology, or a related biological science, OR a combination of related education and work experience totaling four years.
• Experience with aseptic technique and standard microbiological methods.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records.
• Ability to work independently and communicate proactively about progress and challenges.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with anaerobic microbiology or culture of fastidious organisms.
• Experience with human biospecimen handling or clinical research sample processing.
• Familiarity with bacteriophage biology or phage isolation techniques.
• Experience with DNA/RNA extraction and molecular biology techniques.

Pay Range: $23.69/hr-$29.33/hour ($49,280.40-$61,006.40 annually); 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.