Research Equipment and Collections Assistant (UM Student)

University of Michigan Biological Station, Pellston, MI campus

How to apply:

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position. Please send your cover letter and resume to UMBS Resident Biologist Adam Schubel (aschubel@umich.edu).

Job Summary:

The University of Michigan Biological Station (UMBS) seeks a diligent and self-directed student to serve as a Research Equipment and Collections Assistant for the Summer 2025 season (mid-May through mid-August) at the Pellston, MI campus. This individual will work closely with Biological Station staff to manage laboratory and field research equipment and specimen collections. This position requires the ability to follow directions and instructions, solve problems independently, work collaboratively with colleagues, and work independently with objects. The ideal candidate likes to organize things, work with research equipment, develop procedures, and solve problems.

Job duties may include but are not limited to:

• Equipment management:

o      Implementing policies and procedures for equipment management and maintenance

o      Organizing, distributing, and restocking research equipment

o      Maintaining up-to-date inventories of research equipment

o      Developing SOPs for equipment use

o      Compiling and developing equipment training materials

• Collection management:

o      Implementing collection specimen plans, policies, and procedures

o      Relocating specimens

o      Cleaning and sanitizing specimens

o      Inventorying specimens

o      Digitizing specimens

• Fieldwork:

o      Working with faculty and researchers to collect data from field sites

Required Qualifications:

Open to UM students

Interest and ability to live at the UM Biological Station Pellston campus

Desired Qualifications:

Experience working with laboratory and field research equipment in an educational or research setting.

Experience maintaining and repairing equipment.

Well organized with attention to detail.

Ability to complete repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy and precision.

Interest and understanding of general scientific processes with a background in biology, ecology, earth/environmental science, natural history, or engineering is encouraged but not required.

Experience developing multimedia tutorial materials.

Willing and able to work inside and outside in both heat and cool summer temperatures.

Ability to drive a University vehicle.