Position Summary

The Altizer Lab in the Odum School of Ecology at UGA seeks to hire an undergraduate student to assist with ongoing research projects focused on interactions between animals and their parasites, including: (1) Tracking parasites in monarch butterflies using citizen science data, (2) Experimental studies of host-parasite interactions in monarch butterflies, (3) studies of animal behavior and diet as relates to parasite infection. Students will help to collect and enter data, set up laboratory experiments, perform greenhouse work, and communicate with citizen scientists. Students should be comfortable handling plants and insects, data entry, and with basic microscopy. Attention to detail and adherence to sterile procedures are essential. Interested students are expected to work 8-12 hours per week during the academic year and 10-20 hours during the summer months, with the opportunity to continue work beyond the current academic term. We especially encourage freshman and sophomores interested in working beyond the current academic year to apply.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Communicate with citizen science volunteers; assemble and mail sampling kits (20%)
• Process parasite samples by microscopy (20%)
• Handling and feeding of insects; set up and maintain experiments (20%)
• Implement sterile procedures; clean laboratory supplies and equipment (20%)
• Rearing and care of greenhouse plants (10%)
• Data entry and record keeping (10%)

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position

HS diploma, working towards undergraduate degree in Biology, Ecology, Entomology, or related discipline

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

Knowledge of introductory biology, basic microscopy, and MS office. Good writing and organizational skills and ability to communicate with the public.