The RAD Lab at the Cary Institute is pursuing questions on the drivers and consequences of infectious disease in aquatic ecosystems and needs 1-2 hourly assistants to participate in field work and laboratory experiments.Job Description: The individual will work in a team of 3-4 members performing an aquatic field sampling protocol focused on benthic and planktonic invertebrates (i.e., snails and zooplankton) in freshwater ponds and lakes. Individuals will perform the following duties: 1) field sampling techniques including (but not limited to): dipnet, seine, plankton tow, visual survey, quadrat, and transect, 2) dissection and/or visualization of invertebrate hosts for parasite isolation, identification, and quantification, 3) data entry. Additional laboratory-based duties will include maintaining general laboratory organization, culturing algae and zooplankton, and assisting with experimental protocols. The individual will be expected to communicate regularly with the project PI and senior personnel. Qualifications: Candidates should have completed some undergraduate-level coursework in the biological sciences. Competitive candidates will have research experience or training in aquatic ecology or parasitology, which may include experience with dissecting hosts, identifying parasites, culturing algae and/or zooplankton, and use of field aquatic sampling techniques. Proficiency in Excel is desired. Physical demands: The individual must be able to hike up to 5 miles per day, kayak continuously for 15-30 minutes, and lift 50 lbs.Location: The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, NY. Additional details:
- Employment can begin June 2, 2025 with an end date of October 2, 2025.
- The position reports to Dr. Tara Stewart Merrill and is full time, 35 hours/week.
- Wage is commensurate with education and experience.
- This is an hourly, non-exempt, non-benefited position.
- All candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S.
- On-site or nearby housing is available.
- Proof of COVID-19 vaccination required for employment.
Application materials (to be submitted as one PDF):
- Brief cover letter (maximum of one page) describing relevant experience
- Resume
- The names and contact information for three professional references
Review of applications will begin on January 15, 2024To Apply:Please complete an online application at As a single PDF, upload a cover letter, resume/CV, and the names and contact information of three references using the upload resume link on the application website. Cary Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action (AA) employer. It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.