The Wetzel Lab at Michigan State University is hiring a full-time research technician. We are looking for someone who is passionate about studying how biological diversity or climate variability influences insects and their interactions with plants and predators. We use lab, greenhouse, and field experiments and quantitative tools to address fundamental ecological questions that are relevant to agricultural sustainability or climate change. There are two main lines of inquiry in the lab:
1) How does trait diversity within and among plant species influence insect herbivores and predators? We are especially focused on diversity in plant chemistry among individuals within a population. 2) How does temperature variability influence interactions among plants, insect herbivores, and predators? We are interested in understanding how the increased frequency of high temperature events associated with climate change is changing the ecology of plants and insects. Please see http://wetzellab.com for more information. The initial hire is for one year with funding set aside for two additional years, given satisfactory performance in the first year. Starts date is negotiable, but the ideal start is winter 2017. *Qualifications* Applicants should have a BS or MS in ecology, entomology, or a related field and experience with working with plants and/or insects in the lab, greenhouse, and or field. We are especially interested in candidates who have run large field or greenhouse experiments. The job will require excellent organizational and communication skills, a passion for science, creativity in the face of major obstacles, teamwork, leadership, and, most importantly, a steadfast sense of humor. The successful candidate will work independently at times and at other times lead a team of 2-4 student researchers. Candidates need to be able to obtain a driver’s license. The Wetzel Lab strives to be a safe space for diversity in STEM. *Learning opportunities* The research technician will work on projects from initiation through completion and publication. This provides the opportunity for the technician to learn about all the steps in the scientific process. In addition, there will be abundant opportunities for the technician to learn key technical skills in plant-insect ecology and entomology including experimental design, sampling techniques, greenhouse plant growth, insect rearing, field ecology techniques, analysis of plant chemistry, thermal biology, climate change experiments, ecological data-analysis, and others depending on the interests of the technician. Finally, the technician will gain considerable experience leading teams of research assistants. *Plant-insect ecology at Michigan State University* MSU is an exciting place to study plant-insect ecology. The university has a large and dynamic community of scientists working on cutting-edge questions about plants and insects in natural and agricultural ecosystems. Potential collaborators and colleagues can be found in the departments of Entomology, Plant Biology, and Integrative Biology, and across the Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, and Behavior Program. The university has an extensive greenhouse facility and access to field sites on campus and at the MSU Kellogg Biological Station nearby. *How to apply* Candidates interested in applying should read the lab webpage ( http://wetzellab.com and http://www.ent.msu.edu/directory/will_wetzel) and email me ([email protected]) with the following. 0) "Prospective technician” in email subject 1) Brief cover letter describing research interests and career goals 2) CV 3) Names and email addresses for 3 references Candidates who apply by November 15th will be given preference. Please feel free to email before applying to start a conversation. Competitive salary and benefits included. -- William Wetzel Assistant Professor Department of Entomology Michigan State University http://wetzellab.com
