Research Professional 2 - Department of Neuroscience

Job summary/description:
This Researcher 2 position is offered in a laboratory that studies sensory processing and neurovascular coupling in the central nervous system using high-resolution imaging techniques. The Researcher 2 candidate will assist the principal investigator, postdoctoral associates, students, and other laboratory staff with ongoing research projects and will also perform independent research activities. Team science, attention to scientific rigor, and careful experimental documentation are central to the style, culture, and overarching mission of the laboratory.

Job responsibilities:

80% Research and experimental support
Prepare and organize instruments and materials for sterile neurosurgical procedures. Assist with anesthesia, experimental preparation, and physiological monitoring using standard laboratory protocols. Perform neurosurgical procedures, viral-vector delivery, in vivo imaging experiments, tissue processing, perfusions, and histology. Assist with image and data analysis, organization of experimental datasets, quality control of imaging results, and preparation of summaries, figures, or reports related to ongoing projects. Maintain detailed records of experiments, procedures, and results, with careful attention to scientific rigor, reproducibility, and regulatory compliance. Conduct background literature research on relevant topics. Participate in weekly lab meetings to discuss research findings, coordinate ongoing and future projects, identify experimental priorities, and determine how laboratory team members can best support one another's work each week. Recognize how a diversity of problem-solving approaches can lead to better scientific solutions.

The Researcher 2 is expected to maintain regular and reliable attendance, remain available during scheduled work hours, communicate promptly about planned or unexpected absences, and follow University procedures for requesting and documenting time away from work. On some occasions, experiments may extend beyond regular work hours, including overnight imaging sessions, and participation in these extended imaging projects is required. The regular work schedule is 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. When extended imaging projects occur, the work schedule will be adjusted in consultation with the principal investigator so that total work hours do not exceed 40 hours in a workweek, unless otherwise reviewed and approved in advance.

20% Laboratory organization and regulatory support
Order supplies and research materials for the laboratory. Maintain critical regulatory documentation, including experimental records, controlled substances documentation, safety records, and related compliance materials. Ensure that laboratory supplies are organized and appropriately stocked. Assist with cleaning, organization, basic troubleshooting, and maintenance of surgical, imaging, and other laboratory equipment. Follow approved laboratory protocols, safety procedures, and institutional guidelines. Transport materials to other buildings, when needed. Prepare for and participate in laboratory inspections that occur throughout the year.

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience or a related field plus at least two years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least six years
Experience with in vivo multi-photon imaging of the brain.

Preferred qualifications:
Experience with sterile surgical procedures, laboratory administration, MATLAB, and image or data analysis.

The Department of Neuroscience is committed to providing excellence in research, education, and public service. The Department of Neuroscience is part of the University of Minnesota's Medical School. The Medical School and related healthcare professional schools are grouped under the Academic Health Center.

The Mission of the Department of Neuroscience

1. Conduct outstanding neuroscience research.
2. Be an educational resource to the Medical School and the University by providing neuroscience education to undergraduate, medical, dental, graduate, and post-graduate students.
3. Provide leadership and be a focal point for the strengthening of neuroscience across the University by enhancing research, educational, and funding opportunities.
4. Intentionally improve inclusivity by valuing diverse perspectives and actively supporting historically marginalized researchers, students, and neuroscience community members.
5. Provide a bridge for the transfer of advances in basic neuroscience into clinical practice with the goal of improving the health of the people of Minnesota.
6. Enhance the understanding and appreciation of neuroscience by the people of Minnesota.

Pay Range: $22.44 per hour

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
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

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.

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 Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.