Researcher 3 - Tong Lab

The purpose of this position is to support vegetable crop research investigating economically viable methods to help small acreage farmers manage new pest challenges. A R3 is needed to supervise and educate new researchers on identifying and scouting for the insect pests of brassica crops, including swede midge.

The employee is expected to operate semi-independently following the standard operating procedures laid out by the supervisor They will receive regular guidance, direction, and outcome monitoring by the supervisor.

This is a 75% time appointment for four months in total with dates from June 1, 2025 through October 3, 2025. The primary work location will be the University of Minnesota Saint Paul campus (onsite).

Responsibilities

100% Field Work & Supervision

• Supervise scouting and identification of brassica insect pests. Data collection, documentation and analysis. Ensure that project tasks are completed in a timely manner
• Manage entomological research and field work of newer researchers
  • Act as a point of contact for the project and lab
  • Assign responsibilities and provide guidance on tasks.
  • Ensure that project tasks are completed in a timely manner
  • Maintain strong communication with researchers and all collaborating project personnel
• Safety Complete field safety training tracking and compliance. Communicate and train staff on safe field work practices
  
  

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS degree plue at least 4 years of relevant experience or an advanced degree plus at least two years of relevant experience
• Experience with field-based work and educating college-level students
• Demonstrated ability to scout for and identify swede midge, and other brassica insect pests
• Demonstrated careful note-taking, data collection, and analyses
• Ability to communicate well as part of a team and follow directions
• Demonstrated ability to successfully work independently and as part of a team
• Valid drivers license

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with vegetable production research or closely related work*
• MS in entomology

Special Requirements: Ability to walk on uneven terrain, stooping, tolerating getting dirty and exposure to insects.

Pay Range: $27.00 - $29.50 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 75% Appointment, 4 months / Temporary

Position Type: Civil-Service

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

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).