Disease ecology seasonal research assistant
The Eco-epidemiology of Zoonotic Diseases has several positions available for highly motivated research assistants to support research activities for the 2023 field season. The project will investigate landscape features associated with tick, rodent and associated pathogens across an agroecosystem in Washington and Idaho. The research assistant will support the team with one or more of the following activities depending on their level of previous experience: fieldwork planning and logistics, tick dragging and collection, rodent sampling and handling using live traps, data entry, and GPS data collection. This position will provide research assistants with strong training in conducting ecological and epidemiological fieldwork, tick collecting and rodent sampling, data management skills, working with a team, and science communication skills. The position requires working independently in the field, walking in potentially rough terrain, carrying equipment, and tolerating exposure to variable weather (i.e., rain or heat) and environmental conditions.
Primary responsibilities (one or more of):
- Conduct ecological and environmental sampling of ticks and rodents in natural areas, and private farms in Washington and Idaho.
- Coordinate field logistics and entry of data management with a field crew of 2-4 assistants.
- Record detailed observations and data in the field.
- Manage GPS recording of important data.
Requirements:
Applicants should have a keen interest in disease ecology/environmental health/epidemiology/public health, have strong leadership and communication skills, and be highly organized with legible handwriting. A valid U.S. driver’s license and clean driving record is required. Experience with tick, mosquito, small mammal, and identification, as well as with public outreach are desirable. This may be a fieldwork intensive position, so RAs must be in good physical condition and be capable of working in unfavorable environmental conditions (e.g. rain, heat, tick-infested habitat). The Eco-epidemiology of Zoonotic Diseases is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. All are encouraged to apply.
This is a full-time, temporary, and seasonal position beginning in May and ending in August 2023; exact dates are somewhat negotiable.
Wages/benefits:
Dates/hours:
Field equipment, and transportation within the study area will be provided. Housing at sites in Idaho will be provided. Jobs are full time, 35-40 hours/week. Wage is $18/hour.
To apply:
Applications can be accessed online through the online form below. You will be required to provide a list of two professional references, as well as a cover letter outlining relevant field experience and a CV/resume. Please provide these in a single pdf document with your last name in the subject. Application review will begin on March 24th, 2023, and continue on a rolling basis.