Laboratory Research Assistant III - Grassland Ecology

Laboratory Research Assistant III – Grassland Ecology

Hiring Department: Department of Integrative Biology

Location: Brackenridge Field Lab

Weekly Scheduled

Hours:

40

Position Duration: Expected to continue until June 30, 2027

Earliest

Start Date:

June 15, 2026

Salary Range: $38,250 + depending on qualifications and experience

The Invasive Ecology Lab at UT Austin’s Brackenridge Field Laboratory seeks a motivated and resourceful technician to assist with research into invasive species, including invasive grasses, herbivorous insects, parasitoids, and plant–soil microbial interactions.

• Participate in field studies: set up and maintain experiments, collect and curate plants, insects, and fungal associates, operate field equipment, maintain detailed records, and interact with landowners.
• Perform greenhouse duties: configure studies, record outcomes of plant, insect, soil, microbial, and nutrient treatments, manage plant cultures, environmental controls, supplies, and equipment.
• Carry out laboratory tasks: prepare specimens for molecular and chemical analyses, analyze trap camera images and weather station data, use microscopes for measurements or identifications, culture fungal endophytes, enter and manage data, and conduct initial data analyses.
• Assist with administrative tasks, workflow planning, materials and equipment procurement, laboratory and vehicle maintenance, and participate in lab meetings.
• Improve lab processes, efficiency, and safety: conduct quality and safety inspections, update manuals and protocols, and ensure compliance with EHS requirements.

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

• BS degree in ecology.
• Experience across natural sciences, research methods, and biological laboratories.
• Experience conducting 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.
• Ability to function 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.

Class “C” driver’s license and a current three‑year driving record from the state of residence (Texas driver’s license within 30 days if not currently a Texas resident). Employees required to have a CDL are subject to drug and alcohol testing.

• Exposure to all weather conditions and ability to work outdoors in summer.
• Exposure to insect bites and stings.
• May involve hazardous equipment or materials and chemical fumes.
• Requires 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.

• Resume/CV.
• Three work references with contact information; at least one from a supervisor.
• A cover letter explaining how your skills match the job requirements.

The University of Texas at Austin is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status.