Research Assistant III; Center Research & Innovation; CRI

Research Assistant III (Center For Research & Innovation (CRI))

The Research Corporation of the University of Guam solicits applications to establish a list of eligibles for the following Temporary Appointment, 100% federally funded position (subject to the availability of funds).

Position Title:

Research Assistant III (Center For Research & Innovation (CRI))

Posting Number: RC-26-53

Full or Part Time:
Full Time

Work Schedule:

Temporary, Full-Time, 40 hours per week

Position End Date: (not specified)

Salary Range:
Grade I, Step 1, $16.77 – Step 4, $18.75 per hour

• Conduct island-wide field surveys to locate cycad plants and document the occurrence, abundance, and distribution of cycad scales and their natural enemies;
• Conduct field collections and maintain accurate daily records of collection locations, dates, specimens collected, observations, and other relevant data;
• Develop and maintain natural history observations of cycad scales and associated insects;
• Identify insects and other arthropods using appropriate taxonomic resources, identification keys, microscopes, and other laboratory equipment;
• Create, document, and maintain observations using iNaturalist, including uploading photographs, recording locations, and maintaining accurate identification information;
• Rear and maintain insects under controlled environmental conditions, including continuously monitoring temperature, moisture, food/host material, developmental stages, and overall insect health;
• Observe and document insect behavior, development, biology, host associations, and other relevant biological characteristics;
• Maintain detailed laboratory records and regularly enter and organize research data;
• Properly collect, preserve, label, and curate small and micro-insect specimens for taxonomic identification and long-term reference;
• Use dissecting and compound microscopes as appropriate for examination and identification of specimens;
• Assist with laboratory experiments evaluating the biology, host associations, and potential efficacy of natural enemies of cycad scales;
• Maintain insect colonies and ensure appropriate environmental and sanitary conditions to minimize mortality and contamination;
• Assist with preparation of monthly reports, photographs, datasets, presentations, and other research outputs;
• Perform other field, laboratory, and research-related duties as assigned;

• High school diploma or equivalent;
• Three years of work experience OR 90 college credits OR a combination of work experience, college credits, and/or training;

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field from a U.S. regionally accredited institution or foreign equivalent;
• Previous experience with insect collection, identification, rearing, natural history observations, or biological control research;
• Experience using iNaturalist or similar biodiversity/natural history observation platforms;
• Experience working with microscopes and preserving small or micro-insect specimens;

• Ability and willingness to hike and work in difficult or rugged terrain and harsh climates throughout Guam to locate and survey cycad plants;
• Ability to recognize and identify cycad scales and their associated natural enemies;
• Basic knowledge of insect biology, ecology, taxonomy, and natural history;
• Ability to accurately collect, organize, and maintain field and laboratory data;
• Ability to work independently in the field and laboratory and follow established research protocols;
• Ability to work carefully with live insects and maintain controlled environmental conditions;

• Submission of completed job applications authorizes the Research Corporation of the University of Guam to seek and obtain information regarding the applicant’s suitability for employment. All factors which are job related may be investigated (i.e., previous employment, educational credentials, and criminal records).
• All information obtained may be used to determine the applicant’s eligibility for employment in accordance with equal employment opportunity guidelines. In addition, the applicant releases previous…