Student Employee (Parasitology)

The Reif Parasitology Laboratory is seeking dependable student employees to support research focused on arthropod vectors, parasites, and vector-borne diseases of veterinary and public health importance. The student will assist with routine laboratory and insectary maintenance, research activities, animal and arthropod observations, specimen processing, and accurate data collection. Depending on project needs and training, the position may involve handling ticks, mosquitoes, other arthropods or parasites, and research animals.

Previous laboratory experience is not required. Training and supervision will be provided. Students interested in veterinary medicine, entomology, biology, microbiology, animal science, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

Special Instructions

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and a brief statement of no more than one page addressing: (1) why you are interested in the position and the Reif Parasitology Laboratory; (2) any relevant laboratory, research, animal-handling, insectary, agricultural, or technical experience, including specific skills; (3) your anticipated weekly availability, including any ability to work weekends, holidays, or academic breaks; and (4) your academic and post-undergraduate goals.

Required Documents:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Statement (1-4)

Combine into one document and upload your cover letter and resume under the “Resume Upload” section (maximum file size: 5 MB). All other documents (i.e. Statement) should be uploaded under “Additional Documents.” 

• Assist with routine laboratory, insectary, and research-space organization and maintenance.
• Prepare supplies, materials, and work areas for research activities.
• Perform scheduled observations and husbandry-related tasks for arthropods, parasites, and, when assigned, research animals.
• Support the maintenance and propagation of laboratory colonies or cultures, including monitoring environmental conditions.
• Assist with animal handling and restraint after completion of required training and under appropriate supervision.
• Collect, label, process, and organize research specimens such as blood, feces, tissues, or arthropods, as permitted by study protocols.
• Assist with parasite or arthropod collection, identification, enumeration, and sample preparation.
• Conduct basic laboratory or diagnostic procedures after training and document results accurately.
• Enter, review, and organize research data and laboratory records.
• Clean and maintain equipment and follow laboratory standard operating procedures.
• Complete project-specific duties and other related tasks as assigned.

Completion of Auburn University-required laboratory safety training is required before beginning laboratory work. Additional project-specific training may be required depending on assigned duties. Students will work under the supervision of experienced laboratory personnel and may perform tasks independently only after demonstrating competency. All work must be completed in accordance with approved laboratory, animal-use, biosafety, and study protocols.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled Auburn University undergraduate student; first-semester students are eligible to apply.
• Reliable, punctual, attentive to detail, and able to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Able to maintain accurate records and communicate promptly with laboratory personnel.
• Able to perform routine physical tasks, which may include standing for extended periods, bending, lifting or moving supplies, and working in insectary or animal-care environments.
• Able to work 8-15 hours per week during the semester. Scheduling in blocks of at least three hours is strongly preferred.
• Willing and able, when scheduled, to work occasional weekends, holidays, or academic breaks to support time-sensitive animal or arthropod care and research activities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Interest in parasitology, vector biology, veterinary medicine, biomedical research, or animal health.
• Major or coursework in pre-veterinary studies, entomology, biology, microbiology, animal science, or a related discipline.
• Previous laboratory, animal-handling, insectary, farm, veterinary-clinic, or research experience.
• Availability to remain in the position for at least two consecutive semesters.

Why should YOU consider student employment at Auburn University?

• Gain valuable work experience! Student employment allows you to explore different interests, identify strengths, and make informed decisions about your future career goals.
• Build your network! Interacting with faculty, staff, and fellow students can lead to valuable connections and potential mentors.
• Make a difference! Have the satisfaction of knowing YOU are a part of providing the premier academic experience at Auburn and the life-changing work our students and employees perform.

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.