Laboratory Research Assistant III - Grassland Ecology

Laboratory Research Assistant III - Grassland Ecology

Department: Integrative Biology

Hours: 40 per week

FLSA Status: Non‑Exempt

Start Date: Jun 15, 2026

Duration: Expected to continue until Jun 30, 2027

Location: Brackenridge Field Lab

Purpose: The Invasive Ecology Lab at UT Austin’s Brackenridge Field Laboratory is recruiting a motivated and resourceful technician to assist with research into invasive species by performing skilled field, laboratory, and greenhouse studies.

• Participate in field studies as directed by research scientists, including setup and maintenance of field studies, collecting, processing, and curation of plants, insects, fungi, and related samples, field identification of plants, operating remote trap cameras and weather stations, trip planning, detailed record‑keeping, and sample curation, and proficient use of field equipment.
• Perform greenhouse duties to study plants, insects and fungal associates, including setting up studies, recording outcomes of treatments, finalizing experiments, data collection, data management, sample processing, and experiment breakdown, as well as maintaining greenhouse cultures, environmental controls, supplies and equipment.
• Perform laboratory duties including specimen preparation for molecular and chemical analyses, analyzing images from trap cameras, analyzing weather station data, using microscopy to measure or identify samples, culturing fungal endophytes, data entry and initial analysis of data from field, lab, and greenhouse studies.
• Assist with administrative tasks, workflow planning, material and equipment preparation, purchases, general lab and vehicle maintenance and cleaning, and participate in lab meetings.
• Help improve lab processes, efficiency and safety, perform quality and safety inspections, and update lab manuals and protocols.

• High‑school graduation or GED.
• Work experience in field and lab research.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

• BS degree in ecology.
• Experience in several areas of natural sciences, research methods, and biological laboratories.
• Experience with field ecological studies or surveys of plant and insect communities.
• Greenhouse experience with growing and maintaining plants.
• Ability to identify plants and insects to order or family level.
• Basic wet‑lab skills such as reagent preparation, repeatable pipetting, cleanliness, and data labeling.
• Field safety awareness and commitment to safety.
• Experience with data management and biostatistics.
• Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a dynamic research team.
• Excellent communication skills: listening, written and verbal.
• Self‑motivated and goal‑oriented mindset.
• Effective problem‑solving skills in a dynamic environment.

A class “C” operator’s driver’s license is required. Applicants must provide a current three‑year driving record. Texas license required if not currently a Texas resident.

$38,250+ depending on qualifications and experience.

• Exposure to all weather conditions.
• Ability to work outside in the summer.
• Exposure to insect bites/stings.
• May require working with hazardous equipment or materials.
• May work around chemical fumes.
• Lifting and moving.

• Outdoor work at remote field sites, including overnight stays up to four nights per week.
• Workdays may be 4 × 10 or 5 × 8 hours, depending on study needs.
• Occasional work on weekends and holidays may be required.

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal‑opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

The University of Texas at Austin will not dismiss or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.