Summer research assistant: freshwater crayfish ecology

The Reisinger lab at the University of Florida is looking for a responsible and motivated technician to assist with a freshwater crayfish ecology research project in summer 2019.

The research project is focused on how crayfish behavioral traits differ across populations collected from different environments. We are examining populations of rusty and virile crayfish across a wide geographic range, so this project will involve travelling to different locations in the southern, eastern, and midwestern USA to collect crayfish. We will also collect environmental variables from each stream we sample such as temperature, crayfish density, predation pressure on crayfish, and the abundance of benthic organic matter (food for crayfish). The technician will travel with a graduate student to different regions to collect crayfish and sample streams for a few weeks at a time. In between collection trips, the position will be based at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Housing will be provided during collection trips. Camping may be required at some locations.

We are looking for a technician who is eager to learn more about this research and will be motivated and resilient in the field. Applicants should have some college level coursework in ecology and a valid driver’s license. Prior experience with outdoor work, freshwater research, or crayfish collection is desirable but is not required. This is a full-time, paid position ($10 per hour). Employment will be approximately May 13 – August 9, 2019.

To apply: please send (1) your resume including your GPA (2) a cover letter describing your background (include relevant course work, field or lab experience, academic and career goals) and (3) the names and contact information for two references to Dr. Lindsey Reisinger (lreisinger1@ufl.edu). We will begin reviewing applications on April 5th and will continue until the position is filled.

Lindsey Reisinger’s lab is in the Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Program within the School of Forest Resources and Conservation at the University of Florida.