Pollinator Ecology and Behavior Lab Research Assistant

Austincc; Logan (UT); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

A university research lab in Utah is looking for a Pollinator Ecology and Behavior Lab Research Assistant. This summer position requires 40 hours/week commitments involving both lab and fieldwork focused on solitary bee biology and ecology. Tasks include collecting samples, insect curation, and supporting experiments. The role demands attention to detail and organizational skills, with preference for those willing to build a long-term research relationship. A valid Utah driver's license is necessary for potential regional fieldwork.

Qualifications

• Able to work required hours/week.
• Valid US driver's license and comfort driving locally and regionally.
• Prior experience with bees or insects is a benefit.

Responsibilities

• Collecting bee samples and insect curation.
• Conducting bee observations and mapping development.
• Performing DNA extractions and supporting experiments.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Job description

Pollinator Ecology and Behavior Lab Research Assistant

Title: Pollinator Ecology and Behavior Lab Research Assistant

Job Description

The McCabe Lab at the USDA ARS Pollinating Insects Research Unit is hiring undergraduate research assistants to work in the lab and field during the summer full time 40 hrs/week Starting May 1 through the summer with potential for extension after August. Research assistants in the McCabe Lab contribute to research related to solitary bee biology, ecology and behavior, though activities and topics vary with each semester and summer. Specific activities happening in the lab at this time of this posting are in the following list, we have a wide variety of both field and molecular work:

• collecting bee samples
• insect curation
• bee observations
• mapping bee development
• x-raying bees
• plant care
• field work in Logan Canyon
• potential for paid travel to other locations for field work
• DNA extractions
• PRC
• other molecular techniques
• supporting the PI and graduate students with experiments

Research assistants employed for > 1 semester in the lab will also be supported in developing independent lines of inquiry, if desired.

Commitment

40 hrs/week during summer; 20 hrs/week during the academic year

Location

USDA Bee Lab (located on campus next to the research greenhouses), Summer activities include fieldwork in Logan or in other locations across the western United States.

Application Review Date

Immediately, interviews will occur April 20, 2026

Job Requirements

Be able to work the required hours/week. A US citizen with a valid Utah driver’s license / comfort driving at least locally, and potentially regional (Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona) will be important (government vehicles are available). Attention to detail, organizational skills, communication skills, and ability to follow directions are necessary for this position. Comfort asking questions / clarifying directions is a must. Prior experience with bees or insects is a benefit but not a requirement. Students with interest in building a multi-semester /year relationship would be preferred.