Job Description:

This is a seasonal position that starts on May 1 and ends on October 31, 2024 (i.e., 6 months). The position may be extended contingent upon available funding.

Job Duties:

• Conduct bumble bee and wild bee surveys throughout the state of Oklahoma from May to October of 2024 (requires driving and some overnight travel to remote regions)


• Collects various forms of data pertaining to the research project


• Mount, label, sort, database, and manage collected pollinator specimens


• Supervise undergraduate research assistants


• Participate in other field- and lab-based ecological experiments as needed. Examples include maintaining plants in the laboratory or in experimental field plots, processing samples for molecular analysis, etc.


• Other duties as assigned

Required Education and Experience: High School Diploma / GED, AND:

• 12 months of laboratory or field experience

 Skills:

• Working knowledge of laboratory procedures


• Working knowledge of the proper handling of chemicals and biohazardous materials


• Ability to perform mathematical calculations in different units of measurement


• Ability to use fractions, percentages and ratios


• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite or other relevant programs


• Detail oriented and excellent organizational skills


• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for prolonged periods


• Ability to traverse uneven terrain on foot or with self-provided assistance equipment 


• Adequate vision (after correction if necessary) to detect and classify free-flying insects in the field


• Manual dexterity to handle field equipment and insect specimens


• Ability to move or lift up to 20 pounds

Department Preferences:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree


• Experience working in a field ecology research lab


• Ability to drive large vehicles (SUVs, trucks)


• Strong outdoor skills (ability to navigate wilderness trails, situation awareness when working outdoors)


• Strong organizational skills


• Six months of experience conducting insect survey fieldwork in natural or agricultural habitats


• Visual acuity sufficient for tracking tiny insects in flight


• Must be able to work outdoors for long stretches (up to 8 hours per day) under hot and humid conditions


• Must be able to walk continuously for long distances (up to 4 hours of continuous walking) while carrying up to 20 pounds of gear and water


• Excellent fine motor skills

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy. To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.

Apply Now