Field Assistants for Insect Ecology and Population Dynamics

Duties:

Field Assistants work in the field and in the lab assisting in the study of virus
transmission in gypsy moths (the virus infects only insects). Incumbent must reside
in the general area of Kalamazoo, Michigan from May-August (housing will be
provided). Work will involve long hours in the outdoors collecting insect larvae,
carrying out experiments, and lots of driving. No previous experience is
necessary, but applicant must have a driver's license, enthusiasm for the
outdoors, and an interest in ecology. Work involves Gypsy Moth ecology,
population dynamics, and epidemiology.

Essential Functions:

30% - Field work assaying the interaction between gypsy moth caterpillars
and their pathogens: Preparation of experiments, caterpillar handling and
data gathering. Collecting and performing gypsy moth population censuses
from various sites in the Midwest.

30% - Laboratory bioassays of caterpillar susceptibility to the virus, and
monitoring caterpillars' health while they respond to virus exposure

20% - Preparation of insect diet and raising insects

10% - Autopsying and tallying dead caterpillars (instruction will be
provided for all tasks)

10% - Administrative work and data management

Qualifications:

Progress towards or completion of a degree in biology/ecology or a related field.
Must have a valid driver's license and a good driving record. Must be able to
work with small field-oriented lab group. Prior experience in field biology is
preferred.

Must be able to spend significant periods of time in a rural college environment
near Kalamazoo, Michigan, and traveling throughout the Midwest. Must work
well in team efforts. Applicant must be capable of driving long distances safely,
and have reasonable understanding of the safety concerns involved with working
in the outdoors. Must be capable of lifting a minimum of 30 pounds safely.

Terms:

This is a full-time, limited term position, with Field Assistants averaging 40 hours
per week. Housing is provided, for free, in a dormitory-like setting (with a lake,
parking and computer access) at the Kellogg Biological Station, Hickory
Corners, Michigan. Field Assistants must be comfortable with the possibility
of sharing housing with a same-sex roommate. Term is from early/mid-May
through late August/early September, with some flexibility regarding these dates.
Pay will be $8 per hour. Personal vehicles will not be used for lab work, although
they can be convenient for personal errands/entertainment.

Closing Date: Review of applications will begin on 24 February, and continue until the positions
are filled.

Application Instructions:

Please send a cover letter, rsum, and list of references with contact information
to:

Jeffrey Firestone
Dwyer Laboratory
University of Chicago
1101 E 57th St
Chicago IL 60637

Electronic mail for questions only.