Research Assistant

We are looking for someone who will help with animal (fish) care, data collection, and sample processing. The incumbent will work on several ongoing projects on host-parasite ecology and evolution (guppy-Gyrodactylus) and providing technical assistance to other personnel involved in these projects who are using similar techniques. Excellent communications skills, experience with fish maintenance (particularly in recirculating systems such as Aquaneering). The incumbent will report to the PI and work in collaboration with the PI to make progress on several ongoing projects.

The Stephenson lab (http://www.stephensonlab.com) is a friendly, supportive group. We work together on most projects and are looking for someone who thrives working both alone (e.g. on an independent project or entering data quickly and accurately), and in a highly interactive group (e.g. during long days working together on an experiment). We are committed to broadening participation in STEM and encourage applications from people with identities that have historically been excluded.

The Department of Biological Sciences is a highly interactive community situated on the Oakland campus of the University of Pittsburgh. We are dedicated to the mutual success of our members in our research, education, and outreach missions. Pittsburgh is a city that is often voted most livable in the nation. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment that values and nurtures diverse perspectives (https://www.provost.pitt.edu/university-pittsburgh-embracing-diversity-and-inclusion).

Job Summary

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Essential Functions

Fish husbandry, use of fish and their parasites in experimental settings, interpersonal communication, organization, and working with a computer are essential to this position.

Physical Effort

Daily lifting of tanks of water; daily cleaning of dirty items at a sink; daily reaching top shelves of fish maintenance racks; monthly climbing of ladder for maintenance tasks; monthly maintenance tasks that involve kneeling, unscrewing and reattaching water fixtures; daily movement between 4th floor and basement floors of adjoining buildings.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

Assignment Category: Full-time regular Job Classification: Staff.Laboratory Research Technician II Job Family: Research Job Sub Family: Laboratory Campus: Pittsburgh Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree Minimum Years of Experience Required: 1 Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, times flexible. Some weekends and holidays are required to cover fish care, but these are shared among all lab members. Work Arrangement: Monday - Friday, times flexible. Some weekends and holidays are required to cover fish care, but these are shared among all lab members. Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications Relocation_Offered: No Visa Sponsorship Provided: No Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter Optional Documents: Not Applicable PI240730132