Molecular Parasitology Intern

Molecular Parasitology Intern

Orlofske Lab, Department of Biology

University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point

Accountability:

Reports to Dr. Sarah Orlofske, Associate Professor of Biology and Curator of Animal Parasites, and provides specimen handling, record keeping and data collection for research projects and the parasitology museum collection.  

Scope of Responsibility:

The Molecular Parasitology Intern is responsible for following all approved biosafety protocols in the laboratory. The Intern will assist with identification of parasite specimens based on morphological and molecular traits. The Intern will work along side the faculty mentor, other research students and collaborators to follow established protocols for DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis as well as analyzing resulting sequence data. Detailed record keeping and organization of parasite specimens is also expected.

Specific Duties:

Molecular Parasitology Intern duties

• Follows all approved biosafety protocols in the lab at all times
• Plans and develops research objectives for individual projects and ensures that project deadlines are tracked and met
• Coordinates collection and transport of parasite specimens
• Follows standard operating protocols for DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis
• Provides samples for corresponding morphological analysis
• Processes and analyzes molecular sequence data
• Locates and critically reads pertinent scientific literature and taxonomic keys for identification of parasite specimens

Administrative duties

• Creates and maintains consistent work schedule by the first week of the semester
• Completes and submits all personnel information as required by deadlines, including timecards and schedule changes
• Manages digital photo records for parasite specimens in accordance with museum record keeping standards
• Ensures accurate and complete record keeping of host data and parasite specimens collected, identified and submitted to the parasitology museum collection
• Maintains electronic records of parasite data and digital microscope images
• Communicates professionally with other interns, students, faculty mentors as well as outside collaborators.

Skills/Requirements:

• Professional interest in biology or natural resources research, including ecology, evolution, wildlife disease, parasitology, waterfowl biology or museum collections.
• Requires knowledge and ability to properly handle parasite specimens and basic dissection tools.
• Requires knowledge and ability to use dissecting (stereo) and compound light microscopes.
• Requires knowledge and ability to use basic laboratory chemicals and cleaning and disinfecting procedures.
• Must have the ability to maintain detailed, accurate records for procedures and specimens.
• Must have the ability to work individually as well as in a team environment.
  

Qualifications and Compensation:

Qualifications

To qualify for this internship, applicants must be enrolled in at least twelve undergraduate credits per semester, be in good academic standing with the University, and maintain a 2.5 GPA. The position requires the ability to work approximately 6-12 hours per week during the semester. Majority of scheduled hours will fall between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (Monday through Friday) with occasional weekend hours as needed.

Compensation


$15 per hour

Student Learning/Internship Outcomes:

Within this position, the intern will:

•       Develop time management and organizational skills to complete projects by established deadlines within a
professional setting 


•       Gain research, experimental design and data analysis experience 


•       Gain hands on skills with scientific instruments and protocols 


•       Develop natural history collections specimen and data management skills

•       Make connections with other professional agencies and organizations

•       Develop independent research goals (in collaboration with faculty mentor) to support individual career pursuits 


Through the discovery and dissemination of knowledge, UW-Stevens Point stimulates intellectual growth, provides a liberal education, and prepares students for a diverse sustainable world. The university is committed to creating a safe, inclusive learning community for all faculty and staff from a variety of backgrounds. Visit https://www.uwsp.edu/join-uw-stevens-point/ for more information about UW-Stevens Point. To learn about the Stevens Point (aka Point) area fun, jobs, housing, education, quality of life, and bragging rights, visit www.stevenspointarea.com.

Individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process should contact Human Resources and Affirmative Action at 715-346-2606 or [email protected].

The safety and success of students, faculty, and staff at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is paramount. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires the distribution of an annual security report to all current and prospective students, faculty, and staff. You may obtain the complete report at https://www3.uwsp.edu/protsv/Pages/Clery.aspx

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).

An offer of employment will require a criminal background check and authorization to work within the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer:

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.