This position leads a two-phase project on Karner Blue Butterfly reintroduction research in Minnesota, funded by a recent LCCMR proposal in collaboration with the Three Rivers Park District.

The position responsibilities breakdown:

The job will also involve mentoring and management of undergraduate assistants at all stages.

Research:
40% field work (e.g., collecting plant specimens, setting up and maintaining field sensors, surveying butterflies and caterpillars in the field)
20% lab work (processing plant samples, setting up lab experiments); troubleshoots new protocols, designing field experiments with complimentary lab comparisons and data

-Design experimental protocols and research strategies by exploring the literature and consulting with experts
(independently or together with PI). Conduct and manage the research experiments and surveys as grants require, such as
on grassland and insect ecology, or wood/stem nesting bees, under general guidance from PI. Includes rearing bees and wasps, managing pests, conducting advanced bee identification and analyzing and interpreting experimental data, managing budgets and hiring, training and supervising research technicians, inspecting quality of work, ordering supplies. Also develop new methods, explore new approaches and troubleshoots technical problems. Arrange for use of space and equipment and field sites as needed. Review literature. Collaborate on data dissemination (see point #3). Includes tracking budget as required. write reports to granting agencies.

Communication:
-20% writing of associated manuscripts, perform literature searches, synthesize existing knowledge in resulting manuscripts.

Scientific writing at the level of reviewing literature, authoring scientific papers and writing grants reports. Act as lead author
or writes major parts of manuscripts. Collaborate in writing grants, contribute in major ways to development of research
strategies for grant proposals. Prepare data and figures for manuscripts and oral presentations according to scientific
conventions and journal requirements. Deliver formal oral or poster presentations, such as at scientific meetings. Coordinate
and communicate with diverse groups within and outside the University, including information technology groups, scientists,
government agencies and land managers. Participate in journal clubs, explaining research done by others.

Lab and Data Management:
-20% data curation and analysis

Archive data from all experiments performed along with a full record of the work.
Responsible for maintaining the lab, including supplies for insect pinning and identification and long term storage, as well as
other functions to ensure efficient operation of the lab. Evaluate and maintain safe lab work environment. Responsible for
sending research materials to collaborators and maintaining and developing lab equipment. Maintain biological materials
such as insect specimens and plant material for research.
.

Required Qualifications
-Advanced degree with 1 or more years of research training

Preferred Qualifications
-4+ years of related experience.
-Experience with insects and leading large field projects.
-Experience with experimental design, data curation and analysis.
-Experience with writing scientific manuscripts.
-Experience overseeing teams of researchers.
-General attention to detail and enthusiasm for learning new things.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also 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

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

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).