Field Research Technician for vector ecology project

Subject: Field Research Technician for vector ecology project

Job Description:
The Swei lab at San Francisco State University seeks a research technician with field experience to work with graduate and undergraduate students in a vector and pathogen ecology study in San Francisco, California. This research is part of an NSF-funded study to investigate the host and pathogen genetic diversity of tick-borne pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia miyamotoi. The successful applicant will conduct animal population surveys and pathogen infection monitoring in small mammal, reptile, and ticks in the San Francisco Bay Area. Specific tasks include small mammal live trapping and handling, tissue collection, lizard noosing, tick drag sampling, and wildlife camera monitoring. Additional tasks include sample processing, data entry and analysis. The position is temporary and is from April 1 through May 31 with the possibility of extension through July 2018.

Payment:
One paid position at $18/hour (40 hours per week) is offered for two months with the
possibility of extension to four months. This position is based in San Francisco, CA but
will involve extensive field work and occasional camping to more remote locations.
Housing is not provided outside of field work involving camping.

Required Qualifications:
Coursework in biology (esp. ecology, entomology, or wildlife biology) and field work
experience are required. A valid driver’s license is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience conducting/assisting field research projects and experience handling and
identifying vertebrates, especially small mammals or ticks is preferred. Experience
working both individually and as a part of a multidisciplinary team, and a demonstrated
ability to problem-solve independently are ideal. Experience working in adverse, outdoor
conditions is also desirable.

Application Instructions:
All interested, qualified persons must contact Andrea Swei at aswei@sfsu.edu with a
letter of interest, resume, and contact information for three references. The deadline for
submitting an application is March 15th, 2018; If you have questions regarding this
position, please email Andrea Swei.