Temporary Research Technician - University of Georgia
The Microbial and Stream Ecology research group at Savannah River Ecology Lab in Aiken, SC is inviting applications for a temporary lab and field technician from mid-March through September (dates flexible). Lab group website: https://ravenbier.weebly.com/
Position Summary:
This position is for a research support technician who will assist in several research projects and lab management. The projects occur at the Savannah River Site and include working with graduate students to understand how aquatic ferns sequester metals in a constructed wetland, develop methods for stream bioassessments of aquatic macroinvertebrates, and learn how mycorrhizal fungi and bacteria influence nitrogen in different agricultural systems.
This position will fulfill several duties:
- Laboratory work including preparing sampling kits, microscopy, DNA extractions, sorting plant samples, weighing samples, freeze drying, and cleaning lab supplies.
- Field work including collecting water and plant samples from a constructed wetland designed for metals removal, conducting stream measurements, and documentation for bioassessment methods based on macroinvertebrate sampling.
- Data entry and organization including preparing spreadsheets, data entry, image analysis, and basic statistical analysis.
- Basic management of the supervisor’s laboratory (supply inventory, order and organize supplies, adherence safety protocols, basic equipment maintenance).
The candidate will participate in weekly lab group meetings and individual meetings as well as seminars and lab-wide community events.
Minimum Qualifications:
Requires entry-level technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship and ecology and/or microbiology lab courses at the undergraduate level, or professional certificate. Must be over age 18.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:
- Attention to detail and an interest in microbial and stream ecology.
- Familiarity with or ability to learn lab work including microscopy and working with laboratory chemicals.
- Familiarity with field work in wetlands and streams in the Southeastern US.
- General software including MS Excel and MS Word.
- Ability to operate a vehicle.
- Preferred but not required: Experience in molecular protocols including DNA extractions. Familiarity with R statistical software.
Physical Demands:
Lift 50 lbs and work in a variety of outdoor conditions (e.g., heat, high humidity, mosquitoes, ticks, snakes).
Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes
Starting Date: March 16, 2026
Salary:
Commensurate with experience. Hourly range is $16-$18; not benefits eligible. This position is dependent upon the availability of external funding for continuation.
Deadline to apply: January 31, 2026
If interested in applying to this position, please send your cover letter and CV or resume including a list of relevant coursework and contact information for two references to Raven Bier, email: rbier [at] srel.uga.edu with subject line as “Research Technician Application”