The Economo Lab (http://arilab.unit.oist.jp/) at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (http://www.oist.jp/) is seeking qualified applicants for two Research Technician positions. The lab works at the interface of ecology, evolution, and natural history, with an empirical focus on ant biodiversity. We use a variety of approaches to understanding the biodiversity of communities, including field expeditions, collections-based research, 3D imaging and morphometrics, phylogenetics, large-scale databasing, ecological genomics, computational modeling, and quantitative theory.
RESEARCH TECHNICIAN Duties: The chosen candidate will manage a research collection of ant specimens, including mounting, labeling, sorting, databasing, measurement, and imaging, as well as supervising students and assistants to perform these tasks. The individual will also perform in various scientific duties in support of lab research projects including data collection and analysis, image processing, DNA extraction and sequencing, and field work. Other duties include assisting in laboratory management including ordering and maintenance/organization of lab equipment, and participation in outreach activities. Qualifications: A BS/MS in Biology or a related field, scientific research experience, familiarity with databases and handling scientific data, and basic computer skills are required. Experience working with biodiversity collections, and/or experience with molecular techniques and DNA sequencing are highly desirable, but not required. The ideal candidate will have a strong ability to focus and good organizational skills, and be proficient at multitasking, prioritizing responsibilities, time management, and an ability to interact with all levels of staff in a multicultural environment. Job Data: OIST is a newly established international graduate university located in the resort area of Onna-son, Okinawa, Japan, and offers a high quality of life and good working conditions in an international environment. Logistical and financial assistance with relocation will be provided, along with a competitive salary and benefits package. OIST is an English-language working environment and knowledge of English is required, knowledge of Japanese is helpful but not necessary. To apply, please send a cover letter, CV, and list of three references with contact information to <[email protected]>. Informal inquiries are also welcome at the same address. Application review will begin immediately and will remain open until the position is filled. RESEARCH COMPUTING TECHNICIAN Duties: The hired individual will be responsible for computational support of lab research including; designing and maintaining research databases, maintaining lab websites, assist with design and maintenance of data analysis pipelines, application support for utilizing HPC resources, and desktop support to lab members. In addition, there are opportunities lead or participate in development of new technologies that facilitate and accelerate biodiversity research. Qualifications: A BS/MS in science or technical fields, and experience with scientific research computing is required. As this position is not tied to a single application or task, the ideal candidate would have a good baseline of programming and scripting skills, including familiarity with both compiled (e.g. C/C++) and interpreted (R, Matlab, Python) languages, and ability to learn independently. Proficiency with Linux, SQL-based database design and administration, and at least basic familiarity with server administration are required. Experience with one or more of the following would be highly desirable but is not required; GIS, bioinformatics, ecoinformatics, parallel computing, and statistical computing. Job Data: OIST is a newly established international graduate university located in the resort area of Onna-son, Okinawa, Japan, and offers a high quality of life and good working conditions in an international environment. Logistical and financial assistance with relocation will be provided, along with a competitive salary and benefits package. OIST is an English-language working environment and knowledge of English is required, knowledge of Japanese is helpful but not necessary. To apply, please send a cover letter, CV, and list of three references with contact information to <[email protected]>. Informal inquiries are also welcome at the same address. Application review will begin immediately and will remain open until the position is filled.
