Parasitology Lab Student Assistant – Vector Research

Auburn University; Auburn (AL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

The Reif Parasitology Laboratory at Auburn University is seeking reliable student employees to support research on arthropod vectors, parasites, and vector-borne diseases of veterinary and public health importance. The student will assist with routine lab and insectary maintenance, specimen processing, data collection, and observations; training will be provided.

Prior lab experience is not required, making this an ideal entry point for undergraduates pursuing veterinary medicine, entomology,

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled Auburn University undergraduate student.
• Reliable, punctual, attentive to detail, and able to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Able to maintain accurate records and communicate promptly with laboratory personnel.
• Able to perform routine physical tasks, which may include standing for extended periods, bending, lifting or moving supplies, and working in insectary or animal-care environments.
• Able to work 8-15 hours per week during the semester. Scheduling in blocks of at least three hours is strongly preferred.
• Willing and able, when scheduled, to work occasional weekends, holidays, or academic breaks to support time-sensitive animal or arthropod care and research activities.

Responsibilities

• Assist with routine laboratory, insectary, and research-space organization and maintenance.
• Prepare supplies, materials, and work areas for research activities.
• Perform scheduled observations and husbandry-related tasks for arthropods, parasites, and, when assigned, research animals.
• Support the maintenance and propagation of laboratory colonies or cultures, including monitoring environmental conditions.
• Assist with animal handling and restraint after completion of required training and under appropriate supervision.
• Collect, label, process, and organize research specimens such as blood, feces, tissues, or arthropods, as permitted by study protocols.
• Assist with parasite or arthropod collection, identification, enumeration, and sample preparation.
• Conduct basic laboratory or diagnostic procedures after training and document results accurately.
• Enter, review, and organize research data and laboratory records.
• Clean and maintain equipment and follow laboratory standard operating procedures.
• Complete project-specific duties and other related tasks as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Record-keeping

Communication

Follow instructions

Physical stamina

Job description

The Reif Parasitology Laboratory at Auburn University is seeking reliable student employees to support research on arthropod vectors, parasites, and vector-borne diseases of veterinary and public health importance. The student will assist with routine lab and insectary maintenance, specimen processing, data collection, and observations; training will be provided.

Prior lab experience is not required, making this an ideal entry point for undergraduates pursuing veterinary medicine, entomology,