NRRI-Associate Staff Scientist, Environmental Scientist

The Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) is seeking to hire an environmental scientist to contribute to ongoing environmental monitoring, water/wastewater treatment technologies, and molecular biology projects in the Environmental Microbiology & Biotechnology Lab. The successful applicant will participate in a wide variety of research activities across several projects, with duties including chemical and molecular biology analyses, fieldwork campaigns, and assistance in laboratory management and training of junior scientists. A strong emphasis will be placed on laboratory safety, quality control, and research integrity across all job functions.

Priority Deadline Note: The application review will begin on 10/15/2026.

Job Duties:

1. Molecular biology analysis: Execute and optimize molecular biology workflows for environmental samples, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR/dPCR, and sequencing. Maintain clean laboratory practices to avoid contamination (25%)
2. Chemical measurements and processing: Perform chemical assays following established standard operating procedures, troubleshoot procedural issues and/or equipment malfunction, and maintain strict adherence to quality assurance/quality control standards. Techniques will include but are not limited to ion chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, and spectrophotometry (25%)
3. Field work: Lead field sampling, monitoring, and maintenance activities at designated field sites under varying weather conditions (20%)
4. Data entry, management, and statistical analysis: Contribute quality data to reports and publications (10%)
5. Laboratory maintenance: Ensure safety compliance, troubleshoot and maintain instrumentation, and monitor inventory (10%)
6. Mentorship: Train junior scientists and student workers in routine laboratory tasks and methods as described above (10%)

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, or related field) plus at least two years of relevant experience; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience to equal a minimum of six years
• Laboratory/research experience: familiarity with basic laboratory operations and safety procedures
• Field experience: familiarity with basic field sampling techniques, environmental monitoring equipment, and/or general site maintenance
• Physical ability to work long hours outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Organized, self-motivated, and safety-minded (must address in cover letter)
• Valid U.S. driver's license and ability to pass a motor vehicle background check (no moving violations in the past 2 years).

Preferred qualifications

• Master's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, or a related field
• Experience with molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, sequencing library preparation, and/or basic bioinformatics skills
• Experience with data management and statistical analysis software such as RStudio and/or Python
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
• Evidence of excellent record-keeping skills
• Strong oral and written communication skills

About NRRI:

The Natural Resources Research Institute was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1983 as an applied science and engineering research organization to inform state citizens and decision-makers while leveraging the power of the University of Minnesota. NRRI is guided by the forward-looking charter provided by the Legislature to foster the economic development of Minnesota's natural resources in an environmentally sound manner to promote private sector employment.

NRRI's mission is to deliver integrated research solutions that value our resources, environment and economy for a sustainable and resilient future. We are a mission-driven, project-focused team working to create opportunities for natural resource stewardship.

With industrial-scale facilities in Duluth and Coleraine, MN, NRRI works across five strategic research platforms. These platforms address Minnesota's soil, forest, water and mineral resources:

Applied Ecology and Resource Management
Minerals and Metallurgy
Materials and Bioeconomy
Data Collection and Delivery
Commercialization Services

Pay Range: $46,155.20 - $57,345.60 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

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.

You are required to attach a cover letter and resume to be considered for this position.

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 jobcentr@umn.edu.

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.

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

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.