Research Assistant




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Organization: Lincoln Park ZOO (AZA Member)
Location: Chicago, IL, United States
Job or Internship: Job

GENERAL SUMMARY

The Research Intern position is a full-time research internship in the population biology program in the Zoo’s Conservation and Science Department; the position is funded by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The grant is focused on studying and evaluating the system used to manage populations of animals in zoos and aquariums. This management system makes recommendations on how many births should be produced and which animals should move between zoos to make the best genetic matches. The Research Intern will work with the project team to extract data from past recommendations for hundreds of diverse species, enter the data into a web-based database, and analyze data to assess patterns within and between managed populations. There are 2 Research Intern positions, with a duration of 9 months each (although duration may be altered based on needs of project and applicants).

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Data extraction from management plan reports, meeting notes, zoo population databases, and email or phone interviews with zoo colleagues at other institutions;

Data entry;

Analyses of data from zoo populations;

Other research and administrative duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Working knowledge of PCs, using word processing, spread sheet and database software.

Highly motivated, good problem solver, and detailed-oriented.

Ability to clearly communicate verbally and in writing.

Ability to organize tasks to ensure timely completion of all projects.

Ability to learn new software packages in a short time.

Ability to work at computer for 6-7 hours per day.

Database and records are confidential; discretion and ability to maintain confidences are essential.

Ability to represent the Lincoln Park Zoo in a professional manner at all times.

Ability to read and understand written and oral instructions.

Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences (i.e. Biology, Zoology, Ecology) or a related discipline. Please submit a resume, brief cover letter highlighting your relevant experience, interests and career goals, and college transcripts (unofficial are fine) to Human Resources Department Lincoln Park Zoo, P.O. Box 14903 Chicago, IL 60614 or submit as attachments by email to hrjobs@lpzoo.org.