[Pollinator] Bee and Crop Pollination Research: Multiple Field Technicians Needed

[David Inouye]

Bee and Crop Pollination Research: Multiple Field Technicians Needed

The Isaacs Lab at Michigan State University 
(www.isaacslab.ent.msu.edu) is seeking to fill
multiple positions for pollinator research projects for the 2016 season.

We seek field and laboratory assistants for 
multiple research projects investigating the factors
affecting the abundance and diversity of bees in 
Michigan fruit crops and mature wildflower
restorations, as well as techniques to improve 
pollinator habitat in agricultural landscapes.
Work with honey bees and alternative managed bees 
such as bumble bees or Osmia bees is
also possible. Depending on the specific project, 
this will require extended stays at MSU field
research stations for a 3 week period in May 
during fruit crop bloom as well as possible
overnight stays during sampling rounds 
(accommodations at the field station are covered).
The majority of the work will be fieldwork, but 
these positions will also include laboratory work
for sample processing, data entry, etc. Daily 
tasks may include: travel to field sites in
university vehicle (travel time is paid), visual 
pollinator observations, wildflower plant surveys,
pollination experiments, netting bees and other 
insects, weed management, data entry,
measuring fruit yields, and labeling and curating bee specimens.

Required Qualifications:
Interest in field research in entomology, botany, 
conservation biology, field ecology
Valid U.S. driver’s license
Ability to work outside for long periods of time 
in a variety of weather conditions
Attention to detail and protocols
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Desired Skills:
Insect collection and identification
Curation of specimens
Plant identification (especially wildflowers)
Restoration/habitat management (with herbicides and other techniques)
Lifting equipment up to 40 pounds
Pollen identification
Experience with data entry and analysis in Excel, SQL, and R

Job Details:
Employment period: May 1 ­ August 30, 2016, with 
potential for earlier start and later ending,
depending on project needs
Full time: 40 hours/week
Starting salary: $11.00/hour

To apply:
Send a cover letter and CV describing relevant 
and previous research experience in field
ecology, why you want to work in the lab, primary 
interests, and potential start date. Include
the names and email addresses of three references. Send as PDF to Julia Brokaw
(brokawju at msu.edu) by February 26 with “Bee Field 
Technician” in the subject line.