Show HCSU AVIAN DISEASE RESEARCH ASSOCIATE – ID# 223584

RCUH is a State agency, established by the Legislature in 1965, and is attached to the University of Hawaiʻi for administrative purposes. Its enabling legislation is codified as Chapter 304A - 3001 to 3011 of the Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes.

HCSU AVIAN DISEASE RESEARCH ASSOCIATE – ID# 223584.

CLOSING DATE:  September 30, 2023, or until filled. Applications received after this deadline may be considered only if the position is not filled or up to the date a selection has been approved by the RCUH (whichever comes first).

INQUIRIES:  Lori Bufil (808) 932-7977 (Oahu). 

Please apply directly on the RCUH website to be considered for the position.

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Hawai‘i Cooperative Studies Unit (HCSU), located at the Kilauea Field Station of the United States Geological Survey-Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center (USGS-PIERC) in Volcano, Hawai‘i. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. 

MONTHLY SALARY RANGE:  $4,166-$5,000/Mon. 

DUTIES:  

Provides support to project staff in the design and implementation of all aspects of research focusing on the ecology and impacts of avian malaria/disease transmission to Hawaiian forest birds. Under the direction and guidance of the Project Leader, oversees logistics/scheduling, organization, and data collection in the field and lab. Creates and writes field and lab protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Helps manage day-to-day operation of large research project that includes mark-recapture banding study, measures of bird condition and physiology, assessments of microbiome communities, including assisting with banding birds, taking blood and microbiome samples. Applies molecular genetic methods to field collected samples, including DNA extractions and quantification, genetic analyses using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and qPCR, library preparation for sequencing, and analyses of genetic results. Assists in the coordination and training of personnel in field and lab methods. ­Ensures proper data collection protocols are followed in the field. Performs and oversees the entry and quality control of data in the field, lab, and at the office. Drives to various field work sites. With guidance from Project Leader, utilizes appropriate quantitative techniques to analyze and interpret the resulting data from existing large data set. Utilizes appropriate statistical and quantitative techniques to analyze data and interpret results. Documents analysis and performs data management and database archiving. Assists with preparing research products for the United States Geological Survey (USGS) policy and quality reviews, such as Fundamental Science Practices (FSP). Attends meetings with collaborators and discusses progress, analyses, and future steps for projects. Presents findings at scientific meetings and workshops. Works with the Project Leaders on producing written and graphic summaries for internal and peer reviewed reports and journal articles. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Zoology, Wildlife Science, or related biological field. Coursework at the Master’s level from an accredited college or university in ecology and genetics.

EXPERIENCE
One to three (1-3) years of handling, and banding birds, and taking blood and microbiome samples. At least one (1) year of work experience in conducting molecular genetic analyses, extracting DNA and setting up and running PCR reactions. At least one (1) year applied statistics and  data management.

KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge of general methods involving gathering and recording field data for research projects, including the collection of samples  and software to manage data. Knowledge of basic principles of extraction and purification of DNA, primer design, PCR, electrophoresis, next generation sequencing, and bioinformatics. Knowledge of desktop computer operation and safe operation of routine laboratory instruments. Knowledge of principles and ability in techniques of applied statistics and other aspects of quantitative analysis. Knowledge of avian and disease ecology.

ABILITIES & SKILLS
Ability to comprehend complex analytical problems and interpret the results of field studies with scientific rigor. Demonstrated ability to safely handle chemicals and work with high attention to detail for completion and verification of laboratory procedures. Ability to manage large datasets as part of the design, organization, quality control, and documentation of databases. Effective oral and written communication skills to plan and document field activities, ability to write progress reports and publications. Demonstrated ability to work at remote field sites where exposure to hot and cold temperatures, heavy rainfall, mosquitoes, and difficult terrain is possible. Ability to perform all operations according to accepted safety standards and established protocols. Ability to record and navigate to field sites using a map, compass, and handheld GPS unit. Ability to work with GIS and data management software. Ability to enter and manage data and perform visualization and data analysis procedures in R software. Must possess a valid driver’s license (and if use of personal vehicle on the job is required, must also have valid personal driver’s insurance equivalent to Hawai‘i’s No-Fault Driver’s Insurance) and maintain throughout the duration of employment. Must be able to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Post-Offer/Employment Condition: Must be able to complete the UH Title IX training within twelve (12) months from date of hire. Must be able to complete the USGS-PIERC lab safety training within one (1) month from date of hire.  Must be able to complete the USGS-PIERC vehicle safety training within one (1) month from date of hire. Must be able to complete the UH Information Security Awareness Training (ISAT) within two (2) weeks from date of hire, and re-certify every twelve (12) months. 

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS
Must be able to bend, walk, and hike over rough and uneven terrain for fieldwork. Must be able to work under exposure to conditions ranging from hot and dry to cold and wet. Must be able to lift and carry equipment weighing up to forty (40) pounds.

POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENT
As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings.  Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). 

SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:    

Masters from an accredited college or university in Biology, Zoology, Wildlife Science, or related biological field. Working knowledge of Hawai‘i’s diverse ecosystems and geography, conservation challenges, native and non-native flora and fauna, principles of Hawai‘i’s terrestrial ecology and conservation biology, and social landscapes. High level proficiency with Program R.  Ability to design research studies and modeling ecological systems.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com and click on “Job Postings.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Supervisory References, 4) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_recruitment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-7262. Please visit www.rcuh.com/work/benefits for more information on RCUH’s Benefits for eligible employees.

RCUH’s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.