Laboratory Research Assistant III - Cactus Moth Ecology

University of Texas at Austin

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Invasive Ecology Lab at UT Austin’s Brackenridge Field Laboratory is looking to recruit a motivated and resourceful technician to assist with research and management of invasive cactus moths using parasitoid wasps for biological control. The assignment term is 12-months from the date of hire. Renewals for additional one-year periods may be possible, contingent upon job performance, progress towards research goals, and funding.

Requirements

• High school graduation or GED.
• Work experience in field and lab research.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis for any employer without sponsorship.
• Class "C" operator's driver's license.
• Provide a current three year driving record from the current state of residence.
• If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.

Nice To Haves

• BS degree in ecology.
• Experience in field-based natural science studies.
• Experience with maintaining live insect cultures.
• Greenhouse experience with growing and maintaining plants.
• Field safety awareness and commitment to safety.
• Experience with data management and biostatistics.
• Demonstrated ability to perform as a member of a dynamic research team.
• Excellent communication skills: listening, written and verbal.
• Self-motivated and goal-oriented mindset.
• Effective problem-solving skills in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

• Participate in field studies as directed by research scientists by assisting with field releases of biological control agents, and surveys of moth presence using pheromone lure traps.
• Setting up and maintaining field studies, collecting, processing, and curation of cactus moths and their parasitoids, trip planning, detailed record keeping, sample curation, and proficient use of field equipment.
• Interact professionally with landowners.
• Perform greenhouse and lab duties to maintain and study live cultures of insects (cactus moths and parasitoids) in quarantine containment conditions.
• Setting up manipulative studies and recording outcomes of treatments.
• Finalize experiments by performing data collection, sample processing, and experiment breakdown.
• Maintain greenhouse and growth chamber plant cultures, environmental controls, supplies and equipment.
• Conduct data entry with quality checkpoints, data management, perform initial analyses of data and prepare reports.
• Assist with administrative tasks, workflow planning, materials and equipment supplies preparation and purchases, general lab and vehicle maintenance and cleaning.
• Participate in lab meetings.
• Help to improve the lab processes, efficiency and safety.
• Perform quality and safety inspections to meet EHS requirements.
• Help update lab manuals and protocols.

Benefits

• Competitive health benefits (employee premiums covered at 100%, family premiums at 50%)
• Voluntary Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance options
• Generous paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
• Teachers Retirement System of Texas, a defined benefit retirement plan, with employer matching funds
• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses
• Free rides on all UT Shuttle and Austin CapMetro buses with staff ID card

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED