Department
BSD E&E - Administration
About the Department
The Department of Ecology and Evolution hosts diverse faculty and student interests in the ecological and evolutionary processes that underlie patterns of life on earth. The research interests of our faculty include population genetics, molecular evolution, quantitative genetics, animal behavior, plant and animal ecology, evolutionary theory, systematic paleontology, and related subjects. A common theme in E&E is the application of quantitative techniques and current technologies to probe the conceptual foundations of ecology and evolution.
Researchers in E&E apply empirical and theoretical approaches across a wide variety of microbes, plants, and animals. While some research is focused on demystifying the ever-increasing genomic databases for diverse taxa, other researchers probe the factors that define species or make use of field experiments to understand species interactions and fates. Our focus is on the importance of basic science, while we also work to see sound applications of our research in the areas of genetically modified organisms, resource management, climate change, and the genetics of disease.
Job Summary
The primary responsibility of this position is to provide care for research plants in the greenhouse to ensure optimal growth and support ongoing research projects. This role involves monitoring plant health, maintaining the greenhouse environment, and assisting with both greenhouse and laboratory tasks as needed. The position requires weekend and holiday availability.
Responsibilities
Greenhouse Plant Care
Water and monitor research plants to ensure proper growth.
Set, adjust, and observe greenhouse environmental conditions.
Scout for insects, plant health issues, or building concerns that could impact crops.
Identify and respond to problems such as incorrect temperatures, pests, or plant damage, taking corrective action as needed.
Research & Laboratory Support
Assist students, faculty, and staff with research projects.
Support lab members in preparing and conducting experiments.
Perform basic laboratory techniques following established procedures or protocols.
Maintain plants used in laboratory experiments.
Assist in analyzing data.
Operations & Maintenance
Maintain greenhouse supplies; order materials as needed.
Wash and sanitize equipment and growing areas.
Use tools, ladders, and power washing equipment safely.
Replace light bulbs and assist with basic facility upkeep.
Provide general administrative support as needed.
Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project. Acts as a lead for employees performing similar duties.
Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Analyzes data. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Education:
Bachelors degree in related field.
Experience:
Knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related greenhouse discipline.
Fire safety and evacuation training.
Autoclaving and biosafety training (will be provided if not already completed).
Preferred Competencies
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Excellent organizational skills.
Ability to learn new research techniques and methods.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Availability to work weekends and holidays.
Working Conditions
Ability to stand for up to 2 hours at a time.
Ability to sit for up to 2 hours at a time.
Ability to safely climb stairs and move between rows of benches.
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. safely.
Application Documents
Resume (required)
Cover Letter (preferred)
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Research
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Pay Rate Type
Hourly
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Pay Range
$28.85 - $38.46
The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.
Lab & Research (1)