Research Technician, Part-Time: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - UTK

The Research Associate will work as part of a collaborative research team conducting fieldwork with honey bees. The position involves a combination of data collection, animal handling, experimental support, and research coordination, with opportunities to contribute to ongoing scientific investigations. This role is ideal for candidates with a master's degree seeking applied research experience in ecology, biology, or related disciplines, particularly those interested in pollinator systems and integrative animal research. Strong scientific writing skills are necessary, including the ability to produce clear, concise, and well-structured manuscripts, reports, and technical documents for both specialized and broad audiences. Required Qualifications Master's degree in: Biology Ecology Environmental Science Animal Science Or a related field Experience with: Field-based ecological research or laboratory animal work Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions Strong organizational and data recording skills Ability to work both independently and as part of a team Effective written and verbal communication skills Preferred Qualifications Experience working with honey bees (apiculture) Familiarity with: Behavioral observation techniques Ecological sampling methods Basic data analysis skills (e.g., Excel, R, or Python) Experience maintaining detailed research records or lab notebooks Interest in pollinator health, environmental systems, or translational research

Work Environment & Expectations Combination of:

Outdoor fieldwork (apiaries and environmental sites) Indoor laboratory work May require: Lifting equipment (up to ~40 lbs) Early morning or variable scheduling based on field conditions Emphasis on safety, animal welfare, and research integrity

Appointment Details Position Type:

Part-Time, 75%

Start Date:

May 01, 2026

Compensation:

$25/hr Why This Position Matters This role contributes to research at the intersection of: Pollinator health and ecosystem services Animal behavior and physiology Environmental and biological sciences By supporting both field and laboratory systems, the position offers a unique opportunity to engage in multi-scale, interdisciplinary research with real-world impact. Major Duties & Responsibilities Provide support for research projects and activities involving: Honey bee colonies in field settings Assist with fieldwork, including: Hive inspections and maintenance Environmental sampling Behavioral observations of pollinators Conduct animal care and handling in accordance with established protocols Collect, record, and manage experimental data Assist in sample preparation and basic laboratory analyses Support setup and maintenance of research equipment and field sites Contribute to data organization, preliminary analysis, and reporting Assist with general research operations and logistics