The eco-epidemiology lab at Columbia University (Diuk-Wasser lab: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fecoepidemiologylab.e3b.columbia.edu%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cmadeline.hennessey%40uconn.edu%7C803909d387244fa49f7308d7aaed9a03%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C637165809785298889&sdata=HwHErFDSBvTDNJQu%2BbG%2BtvIhG8MLfvHL0Ab1eSQke24%3D&reserved=0) has multiple paid research assistant positions for the 2020 summer field season to work on one of these projects:
(1) Host association of the Lyme disease agent on Block Island, RI
(2) New York City coupled natural-human system (human dimensions)
(3) New York City coupled natural-human system (the natural cycle)
Host association of the Lyme disease agent on Block Island, RI
This research will examine mammalian and avian host specialization by the spirochetal bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi. We are recruiting motivated field technician(s) for field sampling from late May through the end of August on Block Island, RI. Primary duties will include handling and processing (collecting blood, tissue, and ticks) samples from small mammals, sampling for questing ticks, and mist netting, handling, and processing samples from birds. Other duties include bird surveys (depending on skills), maintaining field equipment and data entry. This position will provide strong field training in tick species and life-stage identification, data collection and management skills, tick collection methods, and mark-recapturing of small mammals. Preference will be given to individuals with experience collecting blood samples, having knowledge of the New England avian fauna, and having experience conducting bird point counts.
NYC coupled natural-human system (human dimensions)
This project examines the human dimensions of the coupled human natural system of Lyme disease on Staten Island, NY. Our research team will conduct household epidemiological surveys and tick dragging in residential properties to evaluate the human exposure to ticks and the risk of Lyme disease in urban areas. The responsibilities of the RA will include: conducting in-person recruitment and surveys to householders, conducting an ecological assessment of the property that includes tick sampling in the yard, and coordinating field logistics and data entry with a field crew of 3-4 students. The start date is negotiable; however, we aim to start the position May 25th, 2020. This position will provide strong training in conducting epidemiological surveys in the field, tick collection and identification, and data management skills.
NYC coupled natural-human system (the natural cycle)
This project examines the natural transmission cycle of the Lyme disease agent within the coupled human natural system on Staten Island, NY. Our mobile research team will collect samples from small mammals (blood, tissue, and ticks), sample questing ticks, and use camera traps in urban public parks to understand the ecological drivers of Lyme disease risk on Staten Island. Experience leading a field crew and small mammal trapping is preferred. The start date is negotiable; however, we aim to start the position May 18th, 2020. Early morning and late afternoon hours, as well as Sunday evenings, are required. This position will provide strong field training in tick species and life-stage identification, data collection and management skills, tick collection methods, and mark-recapturing of small mammals with opportunities to participate in mesomammal trapping.
Relevant information for all positions
Housing, field equipment, and transportation within the study area will be provided. Jobs are full time, 35-40 hours/week. Wage is commensurate with education and experience. Applicants should have interest in disease ecology/environmental health/epidemiology/public health, have strong leadership skills, and be highly organized with clear handwriting. Technician(s) must be in good physical condition and capable of working in unfavorable environmental conditions (e.g. rain, heat, tick infested forest). A valid U.S. driver’s license and clean driving record is required. If interested, please fill the google form where you can provide a list of three professional references and attach a single pdf document (with your last name in the subject) including 1) a cover letter (noting which position you are applying to) and relevant field experience; and 2) a CV/resume by March 1st, 2020, for full consideration.
Please contact Maria Diuk-Wasser if you have any questions: mad2256@columbia.edu