The University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR), a branch campus of the renowned University of Minnesota system, is a small, innovative institution located in Rochester, Minnesota. Established in 2002, UMR specializes in undergraduate education with a strong emphasis on health sciences and technology. Unlike larger campuses, its intimate size—serving around 700 students—fosters a collaborative learning environment through its signature Project Exemplar model, where students tackle real-world problems from day one. This approach prepares graduates for careers in healthcare, data science, and interdisciplinary fields, often in partnership with the nearby Mayo Clinic.
Rochester, known as the 'Med City' for its medical hub, provides UMR with unique opportunities for research and internships. Jobs at University of Minnesota Rochester range from faculty positions in health sciences to research roles and administrative support, attracting professionals passionate about personalized education and cutting-edge health tech. For insights on employer branding in higher ed, check employer branding secrets.
UMR was founded to address the need for health sciences professionals in the region, leveraging Rochester's medical ecosystem. As part of the University of Minnesota's four-campus system, it shares resources while maintaining a distinct focus on undergraduate programs. The campus opened its doors in 2009 with its first cohort, rapidly gaining recognition for its 100% employment rate for graduates in health-related fields.
The mission centers on 'learning by doing,' with all programs built around project-based learning. This history of innovation shapes jobs at UMR, prioritizing educators who can guide students through complex, team-based projects simulating professional environments.
UMR offers bachelor's degrees in Health Sciences, Computational Biology, and Health Sciences Humanities. These programs integrate biology, data science, and ethics, preparing students for roles in biomedical research, healthcare analytics, and policy. Research at UMR often collaborates with Mayo Clinic on topics like personalized medicine and AI in diagnostics.
Faculty jobs involve teaching in these areas, with research funded by NIH grants. Staff positions support labs and student projects. For lecturer roles, see become a university lecturer.
UMR hires across categories:
Project Exemplar: UMR's core learning model where students work on authentic projects with industry partners from freshman year, building skills in teamwork and problem-solving.
Interdisciplinary Health Sciences: Programs blending biology, computing, and humanities to address complex healthcare challenges.
Mayo Clinic Collaboration: Partnership providing research opportunities and clinical exposure for UMR faculty and students.
Faculty roles require a PhD in relevant fields like biology or computer science, with postdoc experience preferred. Research focus includes computational biology, health data analytics, and personalized medicine—often requiring publications in journals like Nature Biomedical Engineering.
Preferred experience: Grant writing (NIH/NSF), teaching in active learning environments, interdisciplinary collaboration. Skills: Data analysis (R/Python), project management, communication. Staff roles need bachelor's and 3+ years experience.
Apply via the UMN careers site. Submit CV, cover letter, research/teaching statements, references. Tips:
UMR promotes DEI through the UMN's Drive to 35% goal for faculty diversity, scholarships like the Multicultural Excellence Award, and affinity groups. Events include cultural competency workshops and partnerships with Hmong and Latino communities in Rochester. 25% of students are underrepresented minorities.
UMR's small size offers mentorship, flexible schedules, and wellness programs like fitness classes. Rochester ranks high for quality of life with trails, low crime, and Mayo perks. Faculty enjoy tuition benefits for family, sabbaticals. Campus features modern labs, collaborative spaces, fostering balance.
Jobs at University of Minnesota Rochester offer exciting opportunities in a dynamic health sciences environment. Explore higher ed jobs, get career advice from higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or post a job today.
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