"Research Specialist I"

Department

Ecology & Evolutionary Biology

Category

Research and Laboratory

Job Type

Full-Time

Overview

The Carter Lab is seeking a highly motivated individual to join an ongoing project on studying the social behavior of vampire bats. The successful candidate will play a central role on our team in documenting, analyzing, and experimentally testing social interactions among bats in a laboratory setting. Responsibilities will include recording vampire bats, scoring animal behavior, operating recording equipment, and handling animals under supervision.

Candidates must be willing to work late evenings and early mornings to monitor bat activity as necessary.

This position is ideal for someone interested in animal social behavior, and who is comfortable working with bats and biological materials.

The role will be full-time for two years with potential for extension.

Responsibilities

Behavioral Recording & Analysis (50%)

• Record and analyze videos of vampire bat social behavior.
• Observe and score animal behaviors (e.g., grooming, food sharing, aggression, proximity)
• Set up cameras and monitoring equipment.

Behavioral Experimentation (40%)

• Set up experimental arenas.
• Carry out behavioral trials according to established protocols.
• Assist with animal handling under supervision.
• Record experimental conditions and outcomes accurately.
• Collect biological samples, such as urine.

Food Collection & Preparation (10%)

• Assist with collection, storage, and preparation of blood meals.
• Follow strict bio-safety and animal welfare protocols.
• Maintain cleanliness and proper handling of biological materials.

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications:

• Basic computer skills (Excel, video software, data entry).
• Strong attention to detail.
• Willingness to work with animals and biological materials.
• Ability to follow protocols precisely and work independently.
• Must work well in a team.
• Tasks may include evening or early morning operation, depending on bat activity.
• Work involves standing, light lifting, and prolonged observation.
• Must be comfortable in animal housing and laboratory environments.
• A driver's license is required to transport blood meals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Interest in bat biology, social behavior, cooperation, or animal cognition.
• Experience with animal care or field/lab research.
• Basic experience with coding in R.

Salary Range

$41,000 to $60,000

Standard Weekly Hours

36.25

Eligible for Overtime

Yes

Benefits Eligible

Yes