Entomology Research Assistant

• Traveling to research sites.
• Preparing for and laying out field, laboratory, and storage experiments.
• Working independently or overseeing data collection from research experiments which may include collecting, sorting, identifying, and counting pest and beneficial insects.
• Evaluating plants for insect damage.
• Establishing and maintaining plants and insect colonies in greenhouse experiments.
• Mixing laboratory chemicals.
• Visiting and helping with off-site research programs.

• Maintaining research plots, which may include labeling, flagging, staking, assisting with planting, hoeing, raking, mowing, irrigating, assisting with harvest, and other relevant duties to plant and crop production.
• Assisting project leader and support scientists with conducting literature searches.
• Assisting in preparation of posters, publications, and handouts.
• Providing other technical and administrative duties as requested by the project leader or support scientists.

• Accurately and neatly recording information from experiments, which may include accurately entering data into computers or retrieving data from remote data loggers.
• Washing and preparing samples, and general cleaning and upkeep of research areas.

• Working as a team member.
• Effectively working with others.
• Performing other duties as assigned within the scope of this position.

• Experience using communication skills in a workplace and having effective communication with supervisors, co-workers, and third parties.
• Experience: working with and without direct supervision.
• Experience following good safety practices
• Experience using basic personal computer software programs, including Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Educational coursework in one or more of the following disciplines: biology, entomology, horticulture, agriculture, chemistry, or physical sciences.

• Possess a valid driver’s license and ability to drive a UI vehicle (pass driving record check and defensive driving course).
• Willingness to work on research projects aimed at exploring behavior, ecology, and management of agricultural insect pests and their natural enemies.
• Experience in scientific principles and conducting laboratory experiments.
• Experience keeping accurate records.
• Experience working on a farm; working in a greenhouse; and working in a laboratory.
• Demonstrated ability to: work in a cooperative manner and be an integral team member.
• Ability to operate, maintain, calibrate, troubleshoot, and resolve basic problems with instruments and farm equipment.

• Physical ability: Must be able to stoop, bend, reach and lift, carry and/or otherwise move objects weighing up to 40 pounds. Requires continual movement around and between the greenhouse, laboratory and field sites for extended periods of time to complete duties of the position. Work effectively with plant and soil materials that may contain pollen, dust, or other irritants. Work in outdoor weather conditions.
• Willingness and ability to: occasionally work with and/or apply toxic, volatile, corrosive chemicals and/or carcinogenic substances following strict safety rules.
• Willingness and ability to: Work flexible and/or overtime schedule when the workload dictates.

The University of Idaho (U of I) is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. In compliance with applicable laws and in furtherance of its commitment to fostering an environment that welcomes and embraces diversity, U of I does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, genetic information or status as any protected veteran or military status in its programs or activities, including employment, admissions and educational programs.