Research Assistant

About the Job

The Research Assistant will support research activities within the Livestock Sustainability Group under the supervision of Dr. Pedro Urriola and Dr. Anlly Fresno Rueda. The position will

primarily assist with laboratory-based in vitro nutrition studies, while also supporting additional laboratory, animal, and field research projects as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with laboratory-based in vitro experiments, including sample preparation,processing, and routine laboratory analyses.
• Prepare reagents, laboratory supplies, and equipment for research activities.
• Collect, record, and organize experimental data following established protocols.
• Assist with sample labeling, storage, inventory management, and laboratory organization.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and workspaces in accordance with laboratory safety procedures.
• Assist faculty, postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and other research personnel with ongoing projects.
• Perform other research-related duties as assigned to support the Livestock Sustainability Group including improvements to current laboratory procedures.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma
• Ability to follow written and verbal laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and accurate record-keeping.
• Ability to work independently after training and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred

• Previous experience in a research laboratory.
• Experience with biological sample processing, laboratory techniques, or animal nutrition research.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety procedures and good laboratory practices.
• Experience with data entry and basic data management using Microsoft Excel.
• Experience working with in vitro laboratory techniques or animal research is desirable.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $18.00-$22.00 per 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.

How To Apply

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.

Diversity

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

Employment Requirements

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.

About University of Minnesota

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 nations 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.