Temporary Nonexempt

The Forever Green Summer Undergraduate Research Experience provides opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in research on the development of perennial and winter-hardy annual crops and continuous-living-cover cropping systems. Students join a community of scientists from multiple disciplines and partners from different sectors of society working collaboratively to diversify agricultural landscapes and promote sustainable food and agriculture systems.
There are 8 positions available for candidates enrolled in undergraduate programs of study at UMN or other 2-year and 4-year schools in the metro area. These positions will work in separate labs and will report directly to one of the following researchers:

Fernanda Dias
Neil Anderson
Kevin Smith
Bo Hu
Jake Jungers
Yesuf Mohammed
Hannah Stoll
Jo Heuschele

Perform laboratory and/or field experiments with assigned lab team:
* 30% - Work closely with research mentor to understand the project and perform laboratory, field and/or greenhouse experiments
o Learn operation of equipment used to measure variables of interest (e.g., protein or lipid composition of plant tissue, leaf area growth in the field, soil water content, etc.)
o Collect data
o Maintain lab notebook

* 20% - Use Excel and other software to record, visualize and analyze data

* 15% - Support other research activities of the lab
o In the laboratory, maintain laboratory workspace, prepare reagents, assist with general laboratory tasks
o In the field, contribute to field work including establishing plots, maintaining experimental plots, harvesting plant material
o In the greenhouse, establish experimental plant material, ensure plants are well maintained

* 10% - Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations

Participate in enrichment activities:
* 15% - Attend check-in meetings and seminars throughout the program
* 10% - Prepare and present a poster that summarizes your research at conclusion of the program

Anticipated start date is 6/1/2026.

Minimum qualification:
o To be eligible for job code 2221: must meet enrollment requirements at the University of Minnesota to hold an undergraduate student worker position
o To be eligible for job code 0006: High School Degree or equivalent
Preferred qualifications:
o Enrolled in undergraduate programs of study at UMN or other 2-year and 4-year schools in the metro area
o Strong written and verbal communication skills
o Ability to work independently and as part of a team
o Interest in sustainable food and agriculture systems
o For some positions, prior research experience
o For some positions, coursework in ecology, genetics, chemistry, organic chemistry
o For some positions, proficiency with PCR and microscopy
o For some positions, ability to work outdoors during the summer

Agronomy and Plant Genetics
Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering

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.

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 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).