Research Technician - Campos Lab
About The Position
The Chemical Signaling in Lizards (CSiL, Campos) Lab at Villanova University is seeking a full-time Research Technician to conduct grant-funded research on the behavioral and chemical ecology of Sceloporus lizards. The research technician will work closely with Campos to help lead key aspects of this NSF -funded project. Specifically, the research technician will manage the installation of GC/MS equipment and software in the lab, working directly with Campos and chemists to establish a chemical analysis pipeline. The Research Technician will also be responsible for training/managing undergraduates, coordinating field work to collect lizards, securing permits, conducting behavioral assays, collecting and processing brain tissues, data analysis, and project dissemination. Candidates with experience in animal behavior, chemical ecology, or field biology are especially encouraged to apply. This one-year position has the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years based on progress. Ignite Your Career at Villanova University! Whether undergraduate or graduate, faculty or staff, each community member brings with them a wealth of experiences that enrich our university and shift our perspectives. As a part of this community, your work will improve lives and ignite change! Why work at Villanova? Join a mission-driven organization. Since Villanova University’s founding in 1842, we have been inspired by the values of truth, unity, and love, and are a community dedicated to service to others. Villanova has been included among the nation’s best colleges and universities. VU’s inclusion again in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 “Best Colleges” rankings is another indication of the University’s continued prominence and forward momentum. Villanova’s most precious asset is our people. As an employee, you will receive a holistic benefits package, generous paid time off, a competitive retirement savings plan, flexible work options, wellness programs including gym membership, professional development, tuition assistance, and more . Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University’s mission and values.
Requirements
- Formal Education Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field.
- Minimum Work Experience The candidate should also demonstrate a strong interest in animal behavior, chemical ecology, or neuroendocrinology; have a highly organized and meticulous work ethic; and be enthusiastic about working and interacting with others in a collaborative, supportive, and dynamic lab setting.
- Previous experience in a research laboratory (beyond lab classes) is required.
- Ability to drive to and from field sites.
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience studying animal behavior, handling lizards, analytical chemistry (such as GC/MS) or chemical ecology, and/or dissecting tissues in a research setting is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Performing experiments
- Research project activities include behavioral experiments (odor playbacks), performing immunohistochemistry on lizard brain tissues, collecting and analyzing chemical signals from lizards, drug administration
- Sample collection (glandular secretions and brain tissue extractions
- Organizing and leading field work in New Jersey and Arizona
- Work directly with the PI to coordinate the installation of a table-top GC/MS
- Establish a chemical analysis pipeline in the lab to analyze lizard chemical signal using the new GC/MS (training provided) equipment and software
- Coordinating undergraduate lab schedules and lizard husbandry
- Participate in work related to general laboratory maintenance and support including maintaining crickets (lizard food), ordering supplies, upkeep of supplies and lab equipment, organization of the lab, assisting undergraduate research projects, and other activities
- Contribute intellectually to all aspects of research projects, including data analysis (in R) and manuscript writing
- Perform additional duties and assist with special projects as assigned
Benefits
- holistic benefits package
- generous paid time off
- competitive retirement savings plan
- flexible work options
- wellness programs including gym membership
- professional development
- tuition assistance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
