Laramie, WY, and statewide

Job Title: Summer Field Technician

Organization: UW Zoology & Physiology | Sam Sillen (M.S. student) and Sarah Collins (P.I.)

Location: Laramie, WY, and statewide 

Project Description: Harmful cyanobacterial blooms (HCBs) in Wyoming reservoirs are an increasing concern due to the serious health risks they pose to humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. However, limited research has been done in Wyoming to determine what factors are driving these blooms. To help establish clear management goals that address the frequency and intensity of blooms, this project will use a combination of remote sensing and field data to develop a comprehensive understanding of the historical trends of HCBs and the environmental factors that drive their occurrence.

Duties: The undergraduate technician will assist with field and lab work this summer. The technician will assist a M.S. student in verifying the effectiveness of remote sensing methods that use satellite imagery to estimate cyanobacterial abundance. Specifically, the technician will assist with sample collection in reservoirs across Wyoming throughout the summer. The technician will also learn to identify and enumerate cyanobacteria samples in the lab. The position is based the University of Wyoming in Laramie but will require overnight travel to field sites within the state of Wyoming.

Qualifications: Applicants with a strong interest in lab and field work, particularly related to aquatic systems are preferred. Must be able to swim, be comfortable in boats, and willing to work long days and spend nights camping in the field. Teamwork and communication skills are essential. Dependability, attention to detail, initiative, and independence will also be considered.

Compensation: $11/hour (40 hours / week)

Dates: June-August and possibly through September (if available)

How to Apply: To apply, submit a cover letter (with name, email address, and phone number for two references, including at least one academic reference), resume (with your local contact information, pertinent experiences, relevant coursework, etc.), and unofficial transcript to Sam Sillen (ssillen@uwyo.edu). Please submit applications by March 5 for priority consideration. If position is not filled immediately, applications will be considered after this date.