Bee and Crop Pollination Research: Multiple Field Technicians Needed The Isaacs Lab at Michigan State University (www.isaacslab.ent.msu.edu) is seeking to fill multiple positions for pollinator research projects for the 2016 season.
We seek field and laboratory assistants for multiple research projects investigating the factors affecting the abundance and diversity of bees in Michigan fruit crops and mature wildflower restorations, as well as techniques to improve pollinator habitat in agricultural landscapes. Work with honey bees and alternative managed bees such as bumble bees or Osmia bees is also possible. Depending on the specific project, this will require extended stays at MSU field research stations for a 3 week period in May during fruit crop bloom as well as possible overnight stays during sampling rounds (accommodations at the field station are covered). The majority of the work will be fieldwork, but these positions will also include laboratory work for sample processing, data entry, etc. Daily tasks may include: travel to field sites in university vehicle (travel time is paid), visual pollinator observations, wildflower plant surveys, pollination experiments, netting bees and other insects, weed management, data entry, measuring fruit yields, and labeling and curating bee specimens. Required Qualifications: Interest in field research in entomology, botany, conservation biology, field ecology Valid U.S. driver’s license Ability to work outside for long periods of time in a variety of weather conditions Attention to detail and protocols Ability to work independently and as part of a team Desired Skills: Insect collection and identification Curation of specimens Plant identification (especially wildflowers) Restoration/habitat management (with herbicides and other techniques) Lifting equipment up to 40 pounds Pollen identification Experience with data entry and analysis in Excel, SQL, and R Job Details: Employment period: May 1 – August 30, 2016, with potential for earlier start and later ending, depending on project needs Full time: 40 hours/week Starting salary: $11.00/hour To apply: Send a cover letter and CV describing relevant and previous research experience in field ecology, why you want to work in the lab, primary interests, and potential start date. Include the names and email addresses of three references. Send as PDF to Julia Brokaw ([email protected]) by February 26 with “Bee Field Technician” in the subject line.
