Technical Aide

The Genomics & Chemical Ecology Group at Michigan State University in Department of Fisheries and Wildlife (https://www.lilabmsu.com/) is recruiting seasonal research technicians to assist with sea lamprey behavioral assays.  A primary focus of the Group is to identify and characterize the function of different pheromone components released by sea lamprey, an invasive fish in the Great Lakes.  Towards this goal, we will be conducting behavior experiments in natural streams to characterize female responses to male pheromones and to pheromone antagonists, compounds that nullify female attraction. 

The technician will be responsible for assisting with sea lamprey behavioral assays based out of the USGS Hammond Bay Biological Station, Millersburg, MI from May through August.  Start and end dates are flexible.  Shared housing will be provided near Cheboygan, MI.  The technician will gain experience in the following: (1) passive integrated transponder (PIT) tagging surgical procedures and telemetry equipment, (2) animal behavioral observations, (3) dissection and basic physiology, (4) data collection and management, and (5) fish husbandry and care.  Training will be provided for all job-related activities.  

• College-level coursework in a biological or environmental sciences is preferred 

• Strong work ethic and positive attitude 

• Ability to handle adverse conditions (heat, rain, humidity, biting/stinging insects) and occasional extended shifts (10-hour day).  The work will be outdoors in local remote streams and tributaries to the Great Lakes occurring in rain or shine, day or night. 

• Ability to lift and carry equipment during field site construction and teardown will be required  

• Experience working with power tools preferred but not required