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Laboratory Research Assistant IV – The Invasive Species Lab at the Brackenridge Field Laboratory (Open)

Agency
Brackenridge Field Laboratory
Location
Austin, Texas.
Job Category
Full Time Positions
Start Date
March 01, 2023 or when filled
Last Date to Apply
$35,000+ depending on qualifications.
Website
https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/UTstaff/job/Lab-Research-Assistant-IV---The-Invasive-Species-at-BFL_R_00025017
Description
Job Description: Technician will follow the direction of the lead investigator and senior technician to carry out studies examining the biology and ecology of tawny crazy ants, red-imported fire ants and natural enemies of these ants. Job Details: The Invasive Species Lab at the Brackenridge Field Laboratory, University of Texas at Austin is recruiting a research technician. The successful applicant will work in a team to carry out applied and basic, organismal-level ecological research on invasive ants with questions relevant to the disciplines of biological control, population, behavioral, community, and chemical ecology. The job is a mixture of field and laboratory-based investigation. Field work requires overnight travel to field sites in remote regions of Texas and work outside in all seasons, including Texas summer. Camping out is required at some field sites. A tolerance of insect bites and fire ant stings is necessary. Experimental protocols will sometimes require a non-standard work schedule involving long days, and occasional work on evenings, and/or weekends. Applicants will be trained in species level identification of Texas ants, phorid flies, and microsporidian pathogens. Given aptitude and funding, advancement to a more senior technician position possible. Position ends one year after initial start date. Position may be renewed based upon job performance. Responsibilities: (1) Perform field assays quantifying tawny crazy ant, imported fire ant and native ant abundances. Use GPS to set out transects and record features. Collect ant nests and specimens. Maintain detailed records of samples collected. (2) Conduct laboratory experiments investigating the biology of a microsporidian pathogen, and the social immune behaviors of its host. (3) Maintain a detailed and organized lab and field notebook. (4) Process samples including staining and counting microsporidian spores from infected ants using a compound microscope, preparing samples for molecular analysis, sorting ants and other arthropods from pitfall trap residues using a dissecting scope. (5) Maintain data and process-oriented documents. Enter data in a timely and accurate manner. Write and update protocols and experimental journals. (6) Curate specimens: label and store specimens in vials or in pinned collections. Enter all specimen tracking data in a timely manner. (7) Care for tawny crazy ant nest fragments: feeding, cleaning of nest containers, preparing supplies. (8) Maintain a clean and organized laboratory space. (9) Maintain lab group vehicles in a clean and roadworthy condition. Driving a UT vehicle is a requirement for the position. Maintain vehicles in clean, roadworthy condition. Maintain the workspace in a orderly state. Organize work-flow, and maintain activity schedule on multiple projects simultaneously. Other related functions as assigned.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications: Experience in field or laboratory research in a natural sciences field. A strong work ethic and attention to detail. Demonstrated organizational ability. Ability to work outside throughout the summer and carry loads over rough ground. Tolerance of heat and insect stings / bites. Fine motor skills. Commitment to safety. Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate. Preferred Qualifications: Bachelors degree in biological science. Work experience in field or laboratory research outside of a class setting in a natural sciences field. Strong background and interest in natural history, entomology, chemical ecology, behavioral ecology, and biological control. Experience in field ecological studies and experiments. Experience with insect identification. Experience with micro-dissection and microscopy. Laboratory experience in chemistry. Experience with molecular lab procedures. Experience analyzing genetic sequence data sets. Computer skills including familiarity with spreadsheet manipulation, analysis, and graphing in Microsoft Excel. Experience using GPS. Excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to perform as a member of a research team. Three-year driving record without accidents or tickets. Driving Required: This job requires a class "C" operator's driver's license. The applicant selected must provide a current, three-year driving record from the state of residence. If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of employment.
Job Number
304
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