Undergraduate Research Assistant - Aquatic Plant DNA Analysis
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.

Start Date: flexible, dependent on availability
End Date: flexible, dependent on availability
Time of Appointment/Position: 10-20 hours per week

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.

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.

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). Work-study students are encouraged to apply as well.
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.

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 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).