"Research Specialist I"

Overview

The Levine Lab, which is part of the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Princeton University, is seeking a full-time research assistant to contribute to projects on eco-evolutionary dynamics involving competing orchard flies. These projects will include a combination of outdoor mesocosm experiments, field collections, and laboratory-based measurements of evolution at the phenotypic and genomic levels. The position may also include work on a meta-analytic analysis of previous studies of competitor-induced evolution. Candidates will be selected based on their ability to contribute to both the field and lab components of the projects.

We aim to have the successful applicant start on January 1, 2026, though there is some flexibility. The initial contract will be for one year, but the duration of the position is flexible. The project timeline requires full-time work and is unable to accommodate part-time work spread over a longer period. Remote work is not a possibility. The work is based on campus at Princeton, though will require travel to other field locations.

Responsibilities

Projects will include a combination of the following activities:
Outdoor mesocosm experiments
Field collections
Laboratory-based measurements of evolution at the phenotypic and genomic levels

The position may also include:
Work on a meta-analytic analysis of previous studies of competitor-induced evolution.

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications:

The candidate must be able to work independently, manage time, and communicate progress and obstacles. We expect the candidate to have college/university-level coursework in biology, zoology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or related disciplines. The candidate must be able to lift heavy equipment (up to 50 pounds) and must have a valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

Though not required, the ideal candidate will have experience in one or more of the following:
Insect rearing and collection (especially of Drosophilid flies)
Field research in ecology and/or evolution
Genomic sequencing
Reading and summarizing information from primary scientific literature or online databases

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Standard Weekly Hours
36.25

Eligible for Overtime
Yes

Benefits Eligible
Yes

Probationary Period
90 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)
No

Physical Capacity Exam Required
No

Valid Drivers License Required
No