Plant Ecology Research Intern (Temporary) - Cedar Creek

The Isbell Biodiversity Lab (https://biodiversitylab.umn.edu/) at the University of Minnesota is hiring a team of 5-8 undergraduate and post-baccalaureate research interns to assist with ecological field work at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve (https://cbs.umn.edu/cedarcreek) located in East Bethel, MN, approximately 45 minutes north of St. Paul, MN. This is an in-person position in a rural area; however, rental housing is available on site if needed.

This is a full-time, but temporary, position (8 hours a day, M-F, for 67 workdays or less; up to ~13 weeks). Positions begin in June with flexible start dates and last through August/September. The end date for the positions is also flexible, but we prefer interns who can commit to working until at least August 21, 2026, or later.

Interns work as a team under the supervision of the Isbell Lab manager. The intern team will work to conduct research in multiple ongoing projects at Cedar Creek. The Isbell lab has several ecological research projects that consider effects of global environmental changes (e.g. habitat loss and fragmentation, nutrient enrichment, climate change, exotic species invasions) on grassland plant communities. The majority of our work tasks involve working long periods outdoors in natural spaces, with occasional indoor data processing tasks.

Position responsibilities include:
50% Collect ecological samples and data: tasks include developing and applying plant identification skills, sampling plants, seeds, and soils; recording environmental measurements (e.g., light, soil moisture, temperature).
40% Set-up and maintain field experiments: tasks include weeding plots, maintaining trail cameras, monitoring experimental infrastructure, and setting up experimental treatments.
10 % Assist with other research-related tasks.
Interns also have the opportunity to participate in an optional, but highly encouraged, supplementary research program at Cedar Creek. This research program involves group mentoring on your research project, as well as professional development workshops, career panels, and research seminars, offering an excellent opportunity to grow as a scientist.

Required Qualifications:
1. Age: 18+
2. Ability to work in person and outdoors at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve
3. Demonstrated experience working effectively as a member of a team

Preferred Qualifications:
1. Strong interest in ecology or related field
2. Familiarity with identifying plants through coursework, job experiences, or as a hobby
3. Experience conducting fieldwork or working outdoors in a variety of conditions
4. Demonstrated attention-to-detail skills

Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve is a large biological research site in east-central Minnesota with natural habitats that represent the entire state. There is no place of comparable biological diversity so close to the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Cedar Creek is owned and operated by the University of Minnesota in cooperation with the Minnesota Academy of Science.

• Our mission is to increase understanding of natural systems and to investigate and share sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.
• Our strategy for achieving this mission includes research, conservation, and education in partnership with members of our local and global community.
• Our vision is a future where biodiversity and the full diversity of people thrive.
• Our commitment is to be an inclusive place for research, mutual learning, and community for people of all identities

Pay Range: $16.00/hour; overtime hours during peak season in August are compensated at time and a half ($24.00/hour)

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

There are two different job postings through the University of Minnesota job board for the same position. If you are currently an undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota (any campus), please apply through job posting 371943. All other applicants, including recent high school graduates, undergraduate students from other institutions and all post-baccalaureates (from the University of Minnesota or another institution), please apply through this job posting (371979).

• Applications submitted by February 20, 2026, will be given priority consideration, but we will accept applications until all positions are filled. We will begin looking at early applicants February 13, 2026.
• Student positions are a form of financial support while pursuing an education at the University of Minnesota.
• Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a 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).