Temp Communications Assistant

Anticipated Start Date: 6/1/2026

Expected End Date: 8/31/2026

Work Schedule: Temporary, up to 40 hours/week, M-F.

Supervisor of position: Solomon David

Work Location: St. Paul - UMTC, St. Paul & fieldwork sites (Minnesota rivers & lakes)

The communications assistant will work with principal investigator Solomon David on science communication related to research activities (field and lab). These activities include outreach through multiple media (University communications, student newspaper, lab social media, online magazine media), partner agencies (e.g. Oklahoma Dept of Wildlife, US Fish and Wildlife Service), collaborators (e.g. UMD) and lab website. The student will also assist, as needed, in maintaining laboratory specimens (live and preserved), collecting field data (sampling fishes, invertebrates, habitat), analyzing data and contributing to publications (significant contributions will result in co-authorship).

Responsibilities:

• Science communication related to lab and field research priorities (85%). Duties include development and organization of lab website, science communication through lab social media accounts, blogs, popular media articles, interaction with media, collaborators, and the public. Document field and lab work for science communication and outreach.
• Fieldwork and lab work (10%). Participate in boat electrofishing, trap/fyke net sampling, seining/dip-netting of lake and river field sites throughout Minnesota (typically within 1-2 hours of the Twin Cities).
• General support of and assistance with lab group operations (5%), ensuring adherence to regulatory and safety requirements for lab and field work, including obtaining necessary permits, coordinating with the University Animal Use and Care Committee.

Required

• Bachelor's degree in biology, science communication, environmental science, or a related field
• Experience in website development (e.g. Word Press, Squarespace).
• Experience in science communication through social media and traditional media (e.g. online/print journalism)
• Experience with data management and analysis (Google & Excel spreadsheets)
• Well-developed organizational and time management skills
• Care and attention to detail in field, laboratory, and computer-based research
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Enthusiasm for science communication and engaging with diverse stakeholders
• Valid U.S. state driver's license
• Ability to work long hours outside and in inclement weather conditions
• Willingness to travel for work for several days at a time (some weekend work may be required)
• Ability to safely work in aquatic environments, including boating, canoeing, and wading

Preferred

• Prior experience working in aquatic ecology and/or fisheries
• Experience preparing proposals for research funding
• Experience with field collection methods for fishes including electrofishing, gillnets, fyke nets, and seining
• Experience working with interdisciplinary teams, including academics and non-academics

The GarLab at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities focuses on the ecology, conservation, and management of non-game native fishes, with an emphasis on "ancient fishes" (e.g. gars, bowfins). Additional projects involve conservation of migratory fishes and control of invasives species (e.g. Common Carp). Our team also communicates science through traditional and social media to raise awareness of the value of aquatic ecosystems and freshwater biodiversity.

Pay Range: $25.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

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

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.