Bee and Crop Pollination Research

The Mallinger lab is seeking to fill a part-time temp position for pollinator research project for the 2021 blueberry season.

We seek field and laboratory assistant to help in research project investigating techniques to improve pollinator habitat in blueberries. The majority of the work will be fieldwork, but these positions will also include laboratory work for sample processing, data entry, etc. Daily tasks may include: travel to field sites in university vehicle (travel time is paid), visual pollinator observations, pollination experiments, honey bee hive inspections, data entry, and measuring fruit yields.

Required Qualifications:
A bachelor’s degree in biology, entomology, botany, plant science, field ecology or related fields preferred but not required
Valid U.S. driver’s license
Ability to work outside for long periods of time in a variety of weather conditions
Attention to detail and protocols
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Not allergic to bees or ants
Ok working around bees and ants

Desired Skills:
• Insect identification in Hymenoptera or desired to learn
• Beekeeping
• Lifting equipment up to 40 pounds
• Pollen identification
• Communication skills and outreach education

Job Details:
Employment period: January 27 – April 9, 2021, with potential for earlier start and later end dates, depending on project needs

Part - time: 20 hours/week
Starting salary: $11.00/hour

Additionally, all research staff, including field techs, should be familiar with UF policies related to COVID-19. These include mask-wearing, physical distancing, and no eating or drinking while inside the research lab and vehicles. Face masks will be made available to all employees.

Additionally, only one research is allow per room to further enable safe interactions, and workflows have been adapted to ensure physical distancing guidelines can be followed during all shifts.

To apply:
Send a cover letter and CV describing relevant and previous research experience in field ecology, why you want to work in the lab, primary interests, and potential start date to Shiala at shialamorales@ufl.edu. Include the names and email addresses of three references. Please send as ONE pdf and name the file “your name- Bee Field Technician.” Use “Bee Field Technician” as the emails subject. Closes Jan 22th.

Shiala Morales Naranjo
Lab Manager
UF-EYN- Mallinger Lab
Lab: 352-273-3966
Cell: 407-968-1321