Research Scientist Jobs in Minnesota
Research Scientist jobs in Minnesota are concentrated in the Twin Cities metro and Rochester, with additional activity in Duluth, anchored by major employers such as 3M, Mayo Clinic, and the University of Minnesota across pharmaceutical research, materials science, and biomedical sciences. The market draws candidates from entry-level postdoctoral positions through senior principal-scientist roles, with particularly strong demand in medical device development and agricultural biotechnology. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Research Scientist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 10+ Research Scientist jobs
Work Schedule
Standard (Mon-Fri)Environmental Conditions
Laboratory Setting, Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.), Strong Odors (chemical, lubricants, biological products etc.), Will work with hazardous/toxic materialsJob Description
DESCRIPTION:
We're seeking a Scientist II to join our Research & Development team. You'll contribute to scientific advancements while working with advanced technologies and skilled colleagues. As part of our mission to enable customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer, you'll help develop and optimize products and processes that have meaningful real-world impact. Working in a supportive environment, you'll design and execute experiments, analyze data, address technical challenges, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. This role offers excellent opportunities for professional growth and development within a global leader in serving science.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Advanced Degree with no prior experience required, or Bachelor's Degree plus 2+ years of relevant industry or research experience
- Preferred Fields of Study: Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Engineering
- Strong technical expertise in laboratory techniques and instrumentation, especially Mass spectrometry and associated biological sample preparation, and bioanalytical testing such as PCR and Eliza
- Proven ability to design, execute and analyze complex experiments independently
- Experience with data analysis, documentation and technical writing
- Strong leadership, project management, and organizational skills
- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
- Proficiency with relevant software and data analysis tools
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Ability to adapt to shifting priorities
- Ability to lead and mentor team members
- Knowledge of applicable regulatory requirements and safety protocols
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range estimated for this position based in Minnesota is $66,000.00–$88,000.00.This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:
A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs
Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement
At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy
Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan
Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount
For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards
Work Schedule
Standard (Mon-Fri)Environmental Conditions
Laboratory Setting, Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.), Strong Odors (chemical, lubricants, biological products etc.), Will work with hazardous/toxic materialsJob Description
DESCRIPTION:
We're seeking a Scientist II to join our Research & Development team. You'll contribute to scientific advancements while working with advanced technologies and skilled colleagues. As part of our mission to enable customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer, you'll help develop and optimize products and processes that have meaningful real-world impact. Working in a supportive environment, you'll design and execute experiments, analyze data, address technical challenges, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. This role offers excellent opportunities for professional growth and development within a global leader in serving science.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Advanced Degree with no prior experience required, or Bachelor's Degree plus 2+ years of relevant industry or research experience
- Preferred Fields of Study: Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Engineering
- Strong technical expertise in laboratory techniques and instrumentation, especially Mass spectrometry and associated biological sample preparation, and bioanalytical testing such as PCR and Eliza
- Proven ability to design, execute and analyze complex experiments independently
- Experience with data analysis, documentation and technical writing
- Strong leadership, project management, and organizational skills
- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
- Proficiency with relevant software and data analysis tools
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Ability to adapt to shifting priorities
- Ability to lead and mentor team members
- Knowledge of applicable regulatory requirements and safety protocols
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range estimated for this position based in Minnesota is $66,000.00–$88,000.00.This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:
A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs
Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement
At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy
Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan
Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount
For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards
See All 10 Research Scientist Jobs in Minnesota
Find roles in Minnesota that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Scientist JobsResearch Scientist Jobs by City in Minnesota
Where Minnesota roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Scientist Job Market in Minnesota
A snapshot from current Minnesota openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Medical Devices
What Minnesota Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research scientist jobs across Minnesota.
- PhD in a relevant scientific discipline such as biology, chemistry, or materials science
- Demonstrated experience designing and executing independent laboratory research projects
- Proficiency with data analysis tools and statistical software relevant to the specialty
- Record of peer-reviewed publication or technical report authorship in the field
- Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams including engineering and regulatory affairs
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for presenting findings to technical audiences
Research Scientist Jobs in Minnesota: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research scientist in Minnesota?
Most research scientist positions in Minnesota require at minimum a master's degree, with a PhD strongly preferred for independent research roles at employers such as Mayo Clinic, 3M, or the University of Minnesota. The state does not issue a general research scientist license, so the path runs through advanced academic training, postdoctoral work or industry fellowship programs, and a portfolio of published or applied research demonstrating independent scientific contribution.
Which companies hire research scientists in Minnesota?
Companies currently hiring research scientists in Minnesota include General Mills, State of Minnesota Health Department, and Vantive, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Minnesota's concentration of medical device manufacturers, Fortune 500 life-sciences firms, and a flagship research university keeps employer demand broad and relatively stable year-round.
Which Minnesota cities have the most research scientist jobs?
Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and Eagan account for the largest share of research scientist openings in Minnesota. The Twin Cities dominate because of the dense cluster of corporate R&D headquarters, biotech firms, and university research centers there, while Rochester's openings are driven almost entirely by Mayo Clinic's extensive research enterprise.
Are there remote research scientist jobs in Minnesota?
Yes, but they're rare. About 0% of research scientist openings tied to Minnesota are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, reflecting how much of the work depends on laboratory access and on-site instrumentation. Computational biology, bioinformatics, and data-heavy modeling roles are the sub-specialties most likely to offer a remote or hybrid arrangement.
How can I get hired as a research scientist in Minnesota with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a postdoctoral appointment or a structured industry fellowship, both of which are widely offered by Mayo Clinic, the University of Minnesota, and 3M for candidates finishing graduate training. Lateral moves from roles such as research associate, laboratory technician, or quality control analyst at Minnesota medical device or pharmaceutical companies are another common door. Building a publication record or a project portfolio during graduate school gives candidates a meaningful edge in screening.
Where can I find and apply to research scientist jobs in Minnesota?
You can find and apply to research scientist jobs in Minnesota on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers across the state. Find roles that fit your background and apply directly through each listing.
See All 10 Research Scientist Jobs in Minnesota
Find roles in Minnesota that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Scientist Jobs