Research Assistant

General Summary

The Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes is seeking a 2-year position to assist with conducting touchscreen research with chimpanzees and gorillas, as well as support for other research activities. The position offers opportunities for professional growth and engagement in primate conservation and research.

Essential Job Functions

• Conduct daily touchscreen sessions with zoo-housed chimpanzees and western lowland gorillas
• Assist with educational programs interpreting research methods and findings to zoo guests and donors
• Liaise with members of the Zoo’s Animal Care, Commissary, and Learning Department staff to schedule and run touchscreen sessions and share research updates
• Maintain a database of data collected during research sessions
• Aid in data analysis and interpretation for dissemination of research findings at conferences and via published peer-reviewed articles
• Present research at national and international academic conferences
• Aid in interpreting research to school groups, zoo guests, and donors
• Assist with supervision and training of Center interns as required
• Safely navigate and work within off-exhibit animal care spaces

Required Experience And Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, psychology, anthropology, zoology or related field
• Observational data collection experience with primates
• Experience conducting noninvasive cognitive or behavioral research with primates in human care
• Proficiency with MS Word and PowerPoint
• Ability to organize and analyze data using software such as MS Excel and R
• Strong organization and communication skills (written and spoken)
• Ability to work well in a team, in shared office spaces, as well as independently
• Interest and ability to live within the greater Chicagoland community

Preferred Experience And Skills

• Master’s degree in biology, psychology, primatology, anthropology, zoology or related field
• Experience running computer-based (e.g., touchscreen) research with primates in human care
• Experience programming customized computer applications and graphical user interfaces (GUIs)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for long periods of time
• Ability to work in open office environment
• Ability to traverse zoo grounds

Additional Requirements

• This is an on-site position with a Monday-Friday schedule
• Ability for hybrid work (work from home) schedule may be discussed in consultation with manager
• Must provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination
• Annual TB test required

Pay

$22.00-$24.75/hr

Benefits

• Blue Cross Blue Shield medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverages
• 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match
• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
• Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
• Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
• Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
• Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)