"Research Technician - Campos Lab"

Position Summary

The Chemical Signaling in Lizards (CSiL, Campos) Lab at Villanova University is seeking a full-time Research Technician to conduct grant-funded research on the behavioral and chemical ecology of Sceloporus lizards. The research technician will work closely with Campos to help lead key aspects of this NSF-funded project. Specifically, the research technician will manage the installation of GC/MS equipment and software in the lab, working directly with Campos and chemists to establish a chemical analysis pipeline. The Research Technician will also be responsible for training/managing undergraduates, coordinating field work to collect lizards, securing permits, conducting behavioral assays, collecting and processing brain tissues, data analysis, and project dissemination. Candidates with experience in animal behavior, chemical ecology, or field biology are especially encouraged to apply.

This one-year position has the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years based on progress.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Performing experiments
• Research project activities include behavioral experiments (odor playbacks), performing immunohistochemistry on lizard brain tissues, collecting and analyzing chemical signals from lizards, drug administration
• Sample collection (glandular secretions and brain tissue extractions)
• Organizing and leading field work in New Jersey and Arizona
• Work directly with the PI to coordinate the installation of a table-top GC/MS
• Establish a chemical analysis pipeline in the lab to analyze lizard chemical signal using the new GC/MS (training provided) equipment and software
• Coordinating undergraduate lab schedules and lizard husbandry
• Participate in work related to general laboratory maintenance and support including maintaining crickets (lizard food), ordering supplies, upkeep of supplies and lab equipment, organization of the lab, assisting undergraduate research projects, and other activities
• Contribute intellectually to all aspects of research projects, including data analysis (in R) and manuscript writing
• Perform additional duties and assist with special projects as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Formal Education

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field.

Minimum Work Experience

• The candidate should also demonstrate a strong interest in animal behavior, chemical ecology, or neuroendocrinology; have a highly organized and meticulous work ethic; and be enthusiastic about working and interacting with others in a collaborative, supportive, and dynamic lab setting.
• Previous experience in a research laboratory (beyond lab classes) is required.
• Ability to drive to and from field sites.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience studying animal behavior, handling lizards, analytical chemistry (such as GC/MS) or chemical ecology, and/or dissecting tissues in a research setting is preferred.

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours

Ability to lift 10-gallon tanks; Capturing and handling small lizards; Hiking in hot and humid or dry conditions during summer; Carrying light field equipment (less than 10 pounds total);

Salary Posting Information

This position falls within salaried grade 12 and the rate for the position is $47,500. The final salary will be determined with consideration of several factors including the selected candidate's qualifications, department budget availability, market data, and internal equity.