Utah Valley University
Student - Research Assistant GEL Bishop
Utah Valley University, Orem, Utah, United States, 84058
The College of Science at Utah Valley University is seeking an hourly undergraduate research assistant to support an ongoing ecological research project investigating plant-soil-microbial interactions in desert ecosystems. This position offers hands‑on laboratory experience processing seed, soil, and microbial samples as part of a long‑term study examining how rodent communities and fire affect ecosystem resilience in the Mojave desert. The successful candidate will work directly with Dr. Tara Bishop and gain valuable skills in field ecology and molecular sample preparation techniques.
Process and catalog seed samples collected from creosote shrubs, including sterile storage, swabbing, and preparation for DNA/RNA extraction
Collect, homogenize, and prepare soil core samples for microbial community analysis
Assist with sample preparation and fumigation protocols for soil microbial profiling
Properly handle and store biological samples using DNA/RNA shield and lysis collection tubes
Maintain detailed laboratory records, sample logs, and chain‑of‑custody documentation
Prepare and organize samples for shipment to external commercial sequencing laboratories
Assist with rodent sample swabbing and processing during annual rodent surveys as needed
Must be a current UVU student
Preferably majoring in Earth Science, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field
Ability to follow and document detailed laboratory protocols with precision and attention to sterile technique
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for sample tracking and record‑keeping
Willingness to learn new laboratory techniques and molecular sample preparation methods
Ability to work independently and as part of a research team
Basic computer proficiency for data entry and maintaining electronic lab records
Interest in ecology, microbiology, or environmental science research (prior lab experience preferred but not required)
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Process and catalog seed samples collected from creosote shrubs, including sterile storage, swabbing, and preparation for DNA/RNA extraction
Collect, homogenize, and prepare soil core samples for microbial community analysis
Assist with sample preparation and fumigation protocols for soil microbial profiling
Properly handle and store biological samples using DNA/RNA shield and lysis collection tubes
Maintain detailed laboratory records, sample logs, and chain‑of‑custody documentation
Prepare and organize samples for shipment to external commercial sequencing laboratories
Assist with rodent sample swabbing and processing during annual rodent surveys as needed
Must be a current UVU student
Preferably majoring in Earth Science, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field
Ability to follow and document detailed laboratory protocols with precision and attention to sterile technique
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for sample tracking and record‑keeping
Willingness to learn new laboratory techniques and molecular sample preparation methods
Ability to work independently and as part of a research team
Basic computer proficiency for data entry and maintaining electronic lab records
Interest in ecology, microbiology, or environmental science research (prior lab experience preferred but not required)
#J-18808-Ljbffr