Are you interesting in biodiversity conservation, biological control, and plant-insect interactions? The Plant-Herbivore Interaction Lab seeks to fill several positions as field/lab technicians for undergraduate students and recent graduates. The main project is investigating the potential biocontrol agents used to control the invasive plant air potato. The successful candidates will also have opportunities to assist with other projects related to plant defenses, functional traits, and more. All positions will be located in Gainesville, Florida with some travel to local field sites. Out of state travel may be occasionally required (lodgings and travel is covered).

Position 1: Research technicians (OPS)

Roles and responsibilities:

• Duties involve collecting data, establishing lab, greenhouse and field experiments, data entry and management, supervising student workers, and related tasks.
• Full-time, 40 hour/week.
• Duration: 6+ months, starting ~May 15, 2023.

Qualifications:

• B.S. degree in biology, ecology, or related field.
• Some lab or field experience in ecology, entomology or biodiversity conservation.
• Enthusiastic about working outdoors as part of a team under a range of conditions.
• Valid Driver’s license.

Compensation: $18/hour

Position 2: Student technicians (OPS)

Roles and responsibilities:

• Duties involve plant and insect rearing, collecting data on plants and insects, and other work related to plant-insect ecology in the field and lab.
• Hours could be 20-40/week, starting ~May 15, 2023 through ~August 15, 2023.

Qualifications:

• Undergraduate students pursuing a B.S. degree in biology, ecology, or related field.
• Interest and relevant coursework in ecology, entomology or biodiversity conservation.
• Enthusiastic about working outdoors as part of a team under a range of conditions.
• Preferred: valid Driver’s license and some lab or field experience.

Compensation: $14/hour

TO APPLY: Please send the following documents to Dr. Eduardo Calixto (calixtos.eduardo@ufl.edu) with the subject line “Ecology Tech 2023”: 1) a cover letter (1 page max) describing your experience, general interests in ecology, and interest in the project, 2) resume including relevant coursework, and 3) list of two references. Please combine all documents into one pdf, include your last name in the file name. We will begin reviewing applications March 22nd, so please consider applying soon.