Undergrad Amphibian Research Assistant: Frog Breeding

Job Description and Position Requirements

Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 400 species of frogs. Like many tropical regions, Madagascar’s mid-high elevation rainforest is climatically favorable to Bd (Lötters et al. 2008). Bd has spread rapidly around the world, so it is likely only a matter of time before a lethal strain of the pathogen reaches Madagascar. The over‑arching goal of this research is to proactively develop disease mitigation strategies, such as skin probiotics, for amphibian conservation.

To accomplish this, we have established a colony of Madagascar frogs, representing 14 species. Currently, we are working to develop effective ways to captively‑breed selected species, maintain tadpoles and produce viable froglets. By producing additional individuals, we can conduct experimental work to identify effective probiotic therapies for Madagascar frogs. In addition, we are interested in observing and recording breeding behaviors for these under‑studied species.

The Bletz Lab is seeking undergraduate student(s) to assist with multiple aspects of this work, particularly the captive breeding of the frogs in our amphibian colony. Read more about our lab’s work here: , and please reach out to Dr. Molly Bletz with questions (molly.bletz).

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

Job duties may include:

• Participate in amphibian research projects
• Design and set up breeding plans for frogs
• Maintenance of amphibian housing
• Recording breeding behavior
• Contribute to daily amphibian care and health monitoring

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