Post Bacc Summer Field Research Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY

The Cooper Lab is seeking up to three highly motivated recent graduates or graduating seniors for a summer postbaccalaureate field assistant position. This position contributes to ongoing research on mate choice and speciation in damselflies through data collection, experimental support, habitat assessment, and database management. The role also supports outreach and science engagement activities as needed. This position is an ideal opportunity to build skills and experience before entering graduate school or a career in research. 

Likely travel to upper Midwest and Ontario with overnight stays required, accommodations will be provided.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with field-based research design and execution of behavioral studies.
• Conduct mate choice trials and related experimental procedures in field settings.
• Collect, handle, and manipulate damselflies for research purposes.
• Perform mark-recapture studies and maintain accurate field records.
• Conduct ecological assessments, including monitoring water temperature, flow rate, and habitat conditions.
• Collect, preserve, and catalog biological specimens.
• Maintain and update research databases and field logs

ABOUT GRINNELL COLLEGE

Grinnell College is a top-ranking private liberal arts institution that values diversity, equity, inclusion, intellectual freedom, and social responsibility. We seek candidates that align with these values and have the ability and desire to advance our values and belonging within our community and the communities we engage. Ideal candidates will be prepared to collaborate and contribute to the mission and values of the college across all constituencies.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in completion of coursework in biology, ecology, or a related field preferred. (needs to be attained before start of appointment)
• Valid passport/visa (or ability to obtain) required for international travel.
• Experience collecting and handling flying insects required.
• Experience with field research techniques or ecological data collection preferred.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, dynamic field environment.
• Adapts quickly to changes in processes, environments, and diverse viewpoints.
• Champions diversity, equity, and inclusion through inclusive practices.
• Communicates clearly across multiple formats and listens actively and attentively.
• Ability to manage time and resources effectively to meet deadlines.
• Demonstrates interpersonal versatility by engaging others with civility and respect.
• Leads by example and aligns decisions with the College’s core values.
• Plans and organizes work to achieve goals efficiently.

Preferred Qualifications

• Interest in ecology, evolutionary biology, or natural sciences.
• Ability to adapt to changing field conditions and schedules.
• Strong attention to detail in data collection and recordkeeping.
• Valid Drivers License