S/L Researcher Assistant
About The Position
Westminster University seeks student research assistants for a behavioral ecology project studying the escape behavior of side-blotched lizards (Uta stansburiana) around Great Salt Lake. Assistants will be trained in research skills and support site surveys, experimental design, behavioral trials, and data analysis. Depending on their interest and commitment, assistants may also design their own research project. The opportunity may be especially relevant to students considering graduate school and seeking research experience. Research assistants work under the guidance of Dr. Claudia Ki, GSLI faculty and staff, undergraduate researchers, and other research assistants. The position is for spring 2027, with preference for applicants interested in continuing the research during summer 2027. Assistants also contribute to GSLI education and outreach, represent Westminster University at GSLI events, and present research at conferences and the Westminster Student Showcase.
Requirements
- Must be a student at Westminster University.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Suite or willingness to learn.
- Proficiency in R or willingness to learn.
- Organizational and time management skills.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Willingness and ability to carry out behavioral trials at Great Salt Lake.
- Interest in research and methodology.
- Ability to engage in collaborative teamwork.
Nice To Haves
- DATA 220.
- Interest in summer research in 2027.
Responsibilities
- Report to the GSLI Coordinator weekly and meet with Dr. Ki weekly.
- Read and synthesize a review of relevant literature.
- Learn to identify side-blotched lizards.
- Assist with research design and methodology.
- Assist with site surveys at Great Salt Lake.
- Learn and assist with data transcription, data management, and analysis using R.
- Engage with GSLI activities to develop an understanding of its mission and ongoing work.
- Support GSLI public education and outreach about Great Salt Lake, including event tabling and assisting with presentations at public and campus community events.
- Participate in research, including lake field trips, data collection through behavioral trials, data analysis, and laboratory work.
- Represent Westminster University professionally at GSLI events.
- Present research at conferences and the Westminster Student Showcase.
- Promote an Inclusive Westminster by demonstrating the commitments in the Westminster University Diversity Statement and participating in developmental activities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
