OPPORTUNITY: Phycology and macroinvertebrate field and lab technician

Staff Scientist I

This is a two-year, full-time, benefits-eligible position with the possibility of extension pending additional grant funding. The individual will focus on lab-based work for Neotoma databasing, algae sample processing, and taxonomic classification of larval freshwater macroinvertebrates.

Neotoma is an online Paleoecology Database and community to support global-change research by providing an open, community-curated repository for multiple kinds of paleoecological data. This work entails managing, archiving, and entering paleo datasets into the Tilia software program for upload to the Neotoma database. This staff member will help acquire, enter and maintain data for three groups of Constituent Databases: diatoms, ostracods, and testate amoebae. This staff member will be trained in the Tilia software and data capture into the Neotoma database.

The Phycological sample processing will mostly include digestion of diatoms samples, slide preparation and mounting, data entry/management, and general management of samples and daily laboratory activities following a standard operating procedure (SOP) and a chain of custody (COC). This position will also include hands-on experience in learning general bench lab skills to process the samples appropriately.

The individual will be expected to participate in field work for the Macroinvertebrates section. Field work entails collecting macroinvertebrates, eDNA, and habitat assessments and long days in outdoor environments.

The candidate will be trained for all duties for this position. Training will include: 1) Field collection and processing benthic macroinvertebrate samples (sorting and identification of major aquatic insects and macroinvertebrates orders). 2) Algal sample management, diatom sample processing, slide preparation and taxonomy, archiving of samples, and data capture into the NADED database. 3) Data entry, gathering, and management of the Paleoecological data into the Neotoma database.

The candidate will be part of a diverse group of scientists from the Patrick Center for Environmental Research, and will have the opportunity to interact with scientists, and build up and shape the candidates' research interests. This work will be done under the supervision of the Director of Phycology Department and the Director of Macroinvertebrate Department.

Essential Functions

• Data entry, gathering, and management of three constituent Paleoecology datasets into the Neotoma database.
• Perform algae sample processing, slide mounting, and management of sample data into the NADED database and sample organization.
• Taxonomic classification of larval freshwater macroinvertebrates to Family level.
• Participating in macroinvertebrate field work.
• Collecting and managing data for field work and/or sample processing, including QA/QC of data.
• Follow all ANS and Drexel laboratory and safety protocols.
• Follow Phycology and Macroinvertebrate Departments Standard Operating Procedures.
• Perform some administrative tasks, educational outreach, and other duties as needed

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Biology or relevant field.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Attention to detail, experience in laboratory and fieldwork, ability to work within a team and individually, excellent time management, organizational and communication skills, and experience with data entry and/or management. Valid driver's license and ability to drive field vehicles is preferred, but not required.

Physical Requirements

• Typically sitting at a desk/table.
• Typically standing, walking.

Lifting demands

• 25lbs.
• Typically bending, crouching, stooping.

Location

• Center City, Philadelphia, PA

Additional Information

This position is classified as Non Exempt with a grade of H, [$17.14 - $ 25.71]. The offered pay is dependent upon internal equity and the successful candidate’s competencies, education, and experience.

For more information regarding Drexel’s Professional Staff salary structure and Compensation Guidelines & Policies, please visit the Compensation and Salaries website.

Please review the Benefits Brochure for some information on our benefits offerings.

Special Instructions to the Applicant

Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.

Review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.

Advertised: Nov 18 2024 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: Dec 18 2024 Eastern Standard Time