Ecology Research Assistant

Responsibilities:

Fleshy-fruited shrubs are critical components of Utah's ecosystems. This project aims to quantify variation in morphological and chemical traits in Chokecherry fruits, a common plant species in the Logan canyon. By studying trait variation in a widespread species like Chokecherry we can quantify naturally occurring fruit trait variation and gain broad insight on the role it plays in mediating fruit-frugivore interactions and seed dispersal. Understanding the movement of fleshy-fruited species across the landscape is important for both conservation and resource management. 

• Process lab samples (separate out pulp, dry them in the freeze-dryer and grind them using a lab grinder). 
• Extract phenols and conduct phenol assays using a spectrophotometer. 
• Record and enter data; data quality control and assurance.

Benefits of employment: You'll be introduced to methods in lab work: learn how to prepare extraction solvents, extract phenols from fruit samples and conduct phenol assays, learn lab techniques like using a spectrophotometer and determining concentrations using standard curves. We can support you in developing and applying for grants for independent projects related to this work or your own ideas. You are also welcome to participate in the lab meetings and/or discuss ecology literature if interested. You will be primarily working with Elsa Jos, a PhD student in the Seedscape Ecology Research Group/Beckman Lab at USU (Biology Department and Ecology Center).

Qualifications:

• Ability to maintain attention to detail while performing repetitive tasks in the lab- key to this project.
• Experience working in the lab desired but not required.
• You’ll have to take the free lab safety training offered at USU before start. Please mention if you already have completed this or need to.