The School of Public Health's Cannabis Research Center is seeking applications for a temporary full-time Staff Researcher. This position is funded through June 30, 2027. The position could be extended if additional funding becomes available.
Starting Salary Range: $81,000-100,000, dependent upon the selected candidate's relevant qualifications, experience, and internal equity.
Work Arrangements: The University of Minnesota endorses a "Work. With Flexibility." and we offer a flexible work environment that meets the needs of our students, faculty, staff, and partners we serve. This position will have a hybrid work option with a preferred 3 days onsite during core business hours. The successful candidate will be provided University-configured equipment and supportive technology tools, however, they are expected to have access to a reliable internet connection for duties undertaken remotely. Work arrangements will be discussed during the interview.
Position Overview:
In 2023, the State of Minnesota granted an appropriation for a Cannabis Research Center (CRC) at the University of Minnesota's School of Public Health (SPH). This research center presents a significant opportunity to advance understanding of the role cannabis legalization will play in the health, safety and well-being of Minnesotans.
The Research Investigator will work closely with the CRC team to collect and analyze qualitative cannabis-related research data and disseminate research findings.
Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:Overseeing a Cannabis Research Study (20%)- Work with co-Principal Investigators and research team to develop data collection instruments and recruitment strategy
- Assist with communication with key stakeholders, including the funding agency and the University of Minnesota Institutional Review Board
- Coordinate project team meetings and follow up
- Ensure integrity, safety and ethics during data collection
Collecting Data (35%)- Help plan recruitment strategies
- Implement recruitment strategies
- Schedule interviews
- Serve as primary interviewer for data collection
Conducting Analyses (35%)- Lead qualitative data analyses
- Work with second coder
- Communicate with research team about analytical process and findings
Writing Final Report & Other Dissemination Material (10%)- Assist with development of final report
- Assist with development of a brief and/or scientific paper
QualificationsAll required qualifications must be documented on application materials.
Required Qualifications:- BA/BS degree plus at least five years of relevant experience, or combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least nine years
- Experience collecting and analyzing qualitative data
- Strong writing and oral communication skills
- Strong organizational and problem solving skills and attention to detail
- Demonstrated commitment to antiracism
Preferred:- Masters degree and 1+ years of relevant research experience
- Experience in mixed-methods research
- Experience in cannabis and/or other substance use research
- Experience describing research methods and summarizing research findings in written products (e.g., scientific articles, reports)
- Understanding of public health interventions/policies and evaluation
About the DepartmentThe Division of Environmental Health Sciences focuses on environmental and occupational health concerns, from investigating hazards in our environment to establishing the basis for public health policy.
Our division offers MPH, MS, and PhD degree options across a number of specialty areas, allowing you to focus on an area of concentration. Our Environmental Health General Program allows you to customize your degree to fit your interests and career goals.
Our faculty are leaders in the field, researching all aspects of environmental health while our numerous research centers help connect us to the community through events, research initiatives, and outreach.
Pay and BenefitsPay Range: $81,000-100,000 ; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointme nt: 100% Ap pointment
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.
How To ApplyApplications 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.
Required application materials: resume and cover letter.Priority deadline: Application review will begin on November 5, 2026.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 jobcentr@umn.edu.
Employment RequirementsAny 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.
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