Research, Analyst

Biological Sciences Division at the University of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 33,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Biological Sciences Division at the University of Chicago is seeking a Fossil Lab Technician to perform routine fossil preparation, conservation, and exhibit logistics in the Sereno Lab.

The role involves field expedition coordination, teaching outreach, data handling, and preparing reports. On-site work requires ability to lift 25 pounds and a minimum four-year degree. 30 weekly hours and hourly pay range apply.

Qualifications

• Four-year college degree in science or arts.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Responsibilities

• Fossil preparation of paleontological and archeological material.
• Conservation and stabilization of specimens for research.
• Field coordinator and camp manager for paleontological and archeological expeditions.
• Logistical planning for field expeditions.
• Oversee the logistics for all Fossil Lab exhibits.
• Sample removals for data collection.
• Mold and cast of fossils for research, trade and exhibit displays.
• Paint and mount casts for research, trade and exhibit displays.
• Traditionally and digitally sculptured flesh reconstructions for research, publication and exhibit displays.
• Photographer of specimens for research and publication.
• Assist with fossil lab collections, loans and record keeping.
• Teach educational outreach activities to students/visiting groups.
• Assist with teaching and training Fossil Lab students and volunteers preparation.
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Skills

Fossil preparation

Exhibit logistics

Field coordination

Education outreach

Photograph specimens

Data analysis

Education

Four-year college degree in science or arts

Job description

About The Department

BSD OBA - Sereno Lab - Research Ops

Through the disciplines of Comparative Biomechanics, Evolution and Developmental Biology, Behavioral Neurobiology, and Vertebrate Paleontology, our mission is to explore animal form and function and how they change over the short time frame of an individual’s life history and long time frame of the history of animal life.

Job Summary

The job performs routine assignments related to scientific research projects. Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives and mandates. Analyzes possible solutions using standard procedures. Writes articles, reports and manuscripts. Assists in drafting presentations on research findings.

Responsibilities

• Fossil preparation of paleontological and archeological material.
• Conservation and stabilization of specimens for research.
• Field coordinator and camp manager for paleontological and archeological expeditions.
• Logistical planning for field expeditions.
• Oversee the logistics for all Fossil Lab exhibits.
• Sample removals for data collection.
• Mold and cast of fossils for research, trade and exhibit displays.
• Paint and mount casts for research, trade and exhibit displays.
• Traditionally and digitally sculptured flesh reconstructions for research, publication and exhibit displays.
• Photographer of specimens for research and publication.
• Assist with fossil lab collections, loans and record keeping.
• Teach educational outreach activities to students/visiting groups.
• Assist with teaching and training Fossil Lab students and volunteers preparation.
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Education

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

• Four-year college degree in science or arts.

Work Experience

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

• 5+ years of fossil preparation experience at a working laboratory.
• 5+ yrs Experience in casting and molding.
• 2+ yrs Experience with exhibit management and logistics.
• 5+ Experience managing field expedition logistics and camp management.
• 2+ yrs Experience with fossil preparation training, preservation and conservation methods.

Working Conditions

• Ability to work on site at the Fossil Lab.
• Ability to lift minimum 25 pounds.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)
• Cover Letter (optional)
• Contact Information of at least two references (required)

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

30

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Pay Range

$24.04 - $33.65

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case‑by‑case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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