Research Technician – Caterpillar Study (1-2 positions)
Description
The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking up to two research technicians to assist with graduate research studies focused on examining the effects of pesticides on larval Lepidoptera, an important food resource for many species of birds. Recent research has detected pesticides in protected natural areas that do not receive pesticide applications. Plants have shown damage associated with pesticide exposure, but consequences to leaf-eating insects such as caterpillars are not well understood.
Field work will include surveying caterpillars in forests and grasslands in central and/or southern Illinois which may involve sweep-netting, branch clipping, and using beat-sheets along transects. The technician may be responsible for identifying caterpillars and other arthropods in the field, photographing caterpillars for identification, collecting data, and driving in between field sites daily. The technician must be able to work well independently and with others. Responsibilities may also include collecting caterpillar and leaf samples which will be sent to a lab for chemical analyses. Lab work will involve rearing of caterpillars to pupal and adult stages, pesticide handling, diet manipulation, collecting data, and other tasks as needed. There is a potential opportunity to perform night moth surveys involving camera-trap photography and image analysis, so the technician should have a flexible schedule and be able to work odd hours. Candidates should tolerate working outside in variable weather conditions for long periods of time with biting insects and noxious weeds. The ability to maintain a positive attitude and good humor despite adverse field conditions is desirable. Housing will either be provided or compensation will be adjusted to assist with housing cost.
Qualifications
- Candidates must have obtained or be pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in ecology, entomology, environmental science, or a related field.
- A valid U.S. driver’s license is required.
- The candidate must have experience collecting data, be committed to following protocol, safety guidelines, and upholding scientific principles and ethics, as well as be a skilled problem-solver with effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Candidates should have a high attention to detail, which is important in locating and identifying caterpillars.
- Have the ability to walk long distances and lift and carry heavy objects in the field.
- Must be comfortable or open to handling live and dead invertebrates.
- A competitive candidate will have a passion for entomology and ecology, an eagerness to learn, and a willingness to improve.
- Experience identifying arthropods and/or plants, conducting arthropod surveys, and experience with insect husbandry are advantageous but not required.
Start date: May 5, flexible
End date: August 22, flexible
Hours per week: 35-40
Salary: $15-17/hour, depending on experience
Benefits: Work Vehicle & Housing/Housing Stipend Provided
Education required: Some undergraduate
Location: Central and/or southern Illinois
To apply: Please send your resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to Alexa Rojas @ alexa7@illinois.edu. For cover letters, please describe relevant experience and your interest in the position. Please email me if you have questions about the position. Applications will be accepted until March 31st or until the position is filled.
The U of I is an EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled http://go.illinois.edu/EEO that participates in the federal E-verify program and participates in a background check program focused on prior criminal or sexual misconduct history.