IMLS Scholar - Bear Research

About the role

Through funding by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) National Leadership Grants program, the Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking to hire an IMLS Scholar. This is the third of three temporary, full-time, trainee positions associated with this award. Scholars will work 40 hr per week, supporting the goals of CREW’s Polar Bear Signature Project. The successful candidate will be instrumental in achieving the goals of an IMLS grant-funded project which aims to support the efforts of CREW’s Polar Bear Signature Project. Current activities focus on developing and validating physiological monitoring tools and techniques that will both improve management of zoo bears and enhance conservation of wild bear species. The successful candidate will work alongside and be mentored by CREW scientists (primarily Dr. Liz Brammer-Robbins, Dr. Erin Curry, and Brandon Edwards) focusing on sloth bear fecal hormone analysis and assisting with extracellular vesicle protein analysis for pregnancy detection in a model species. Scholars will receive rigorous training in laboratory techniques, physiological monitoring methods, and cutting-edge research approaches. Training may be tailored to the individual’s skillset and aptitude, as well as current project goals. Although CREW is located on the grounds of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the duties associated with this role will be performed primarily in a laboratory or at a computer, with minimal direct animal interactions.

Responsibilities

• Process fecal, blood, urine, and other biological samples with precision and accuracy.
• Conduct steroid hormone extractions and perform hormone assays (EIAs).
• Conduct scientific literature reviews to support new and ongoing research.
• Maintain sample inventories and ensure proper data management.
• Support general laboratory operations, including equipment upkeep and cleanliness.
• Participate in additional research or operational tasks as needed.
• Participate in a week-long cross-training experience at a partnering zoological research facility to broaden professional exposure to wildlife studies. (Must be willing to travel)

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor of Science degree in a related field, such as biology, animal science, zoology, or wildlife conservation;
• Completed coursework in the areas of physiology, reproduction, and/or endocrinology;
• Eager to learn with an outstanding work ethic and passionate about pursuing a career in wildlife conservation;
• Extremely detail-oriented and