Research Assistant: Fish Ecology in MN Lakes

OVERVIEW

JOB TITLE:Research Assistant: Fish Ecology in MN Lakes LOCATION: St. Paul PAY RATE: 16.50 per hour HOURS: 3-5 hours a week during the school year.

40 hours over the summer

JOB SUMMARY : I wish to hire two undergraduate research assistants for part-time employment (3-5 hrs/week) during the 2026-2027 school year and for full-time employment (40 hrs/week) during summer of 2027. There is potential for both positions to extend beyond summer of 2027. The two students will assist with a project using stable isotope analysis of fish communities in Minnesota lakes (lakes Vermilion, Leech, and Mille Lacs) to assess how fish ecology and feeding patterns have changed in response to anthropogenic stressors over the last 15 years. The project is based in the St. Thomas Biology Department and is a collaborative effort with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the students will gain experience working with scientists from the DNR. Work duties include both field and lab research components. Field work involves sampling fish and invertebrate communities as well as lake ecological features, while lab work includes processing samples, data entry and analysis, literature review, and assistance writing reports and manuscripts. Students will also have the opportunity to develop their own research project to be done in conjunction with our larger study. Once trained students can work independently at times that fit their schedule.

To apply please submit a resume that includes work history as well as a statement 500 words or less that describes why you are interested in this position and your post St Thomas career goals.

Please reach out to Kyle Zimmer at kdzimmer@stthomas.edu with questions.

QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must be undergraduates majoring in a science field with preference given to students majoring in biology or environmental science. The successful applicants must be able to work independently, follow lab protocols meticulously, communicate effectively, and be able to work a reliable schedule. All other required skills can be taught during on-the job training.

ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible for student employment, St. Thomas students must be degree seeking at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels. Students must be actively enrolled at least part-time in courses for credit. For further information on eligibility please see the Student Employee Toolkit on One StThomas.

The University of St. Thomas is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including

disability and protected veteran status.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR CANDIDATES

To apply please submit a resume that includes work history as well as a statement 500 words or less that describes why you are interested in this position and your post St Thomas career goals.