Breeding and Genetics Technician

Education and Experience

Required

• Bachelor’s degree plus five years of years of related experience or a advanced degree plus at least three years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and experience to equal at least 9 years.

Preferred:

• MS degree in plant science related field
• Experience conducting small grains field trials
• Experience growing oat and barley in the greenhouse
• Experience making breeding crosses in small grains

Breeding and Genetics Technician

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

• Classification Title: Researcher 4 (8354AG)
• Department: Agronomy and Plant Genetics
• Campus: Twin Cities
• Supervisor: Kevin P. Smith

Position Summary
This position is responsible for independently overseeing and conducting essential research activities supporting oat and durum wheat breeding and genetics programs. The role contributes to the development of new genetic stocks, breeding populations, and improved crop varieties through coordinated field, greenhouse, and data-analysis activities. Responsibilities include experimental design, field trial implementation, phenotypic and genotypic data collection, data analysis, seed inventory management, and reporting. The position applies scientific judgment and technical expertise to adapt research plans and inform breeding decisions.

Essential Functions
Field Trial Design and Implementation (20%)

• Design, establish, and manage field trials using small-plot research equipment, including plot planters, cultivators, and combines.
• Develop randomized experimental designs and data collection templates using R and Excel.
• Transport and operate research equipment at on- and off-campus field locations, including occasional overnight travel.

Field Data Collection and Data Management (20%)

• Collect, organize, and manage agronomic and phenotypic data from field trials, including disease assessments and visual observations.
• Utilize remote sensing tools, handheld tablets, and computers for data capture.
• Store, organize, and upload datasets to local and online databases following established data management protocols.

Data Analysis and Reporting (20%)

• Summarize experimental data and conduct basic statistical analyses across multiple trials or locations, including analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mean separation tests (e.g., t-tests, LSD).
• Create tables, figures, and written summaries for technical reports and research documentation.

Seed Inventory Management (10%)

• Organize, maintain, and track seed inventories, including cleaning, packaging, labeling, and storage.
• Monitor seed stocks, identify low inventory levels, conduct seed increases as needed, and prepare seed for shipment to research collaborators.

Greenhouse Operations and Breeding Population Development (30%)

• Grow plants in greenhouse environments and perform controlled cross-pollinations to generate new breeding and genetics populations.
• Collect plant tissue samples for genotyping.
• Track genotype datasets, conduct quality control checks, and format data for downstream statistical and breeding analyses.

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.

A resume is required. Including a cover letter is preferred.

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).