Research, Technician

About the Department

Through the disciplines of Comparative Biomechanics, Evolution and Developmental Biology, Behavioral Neurobiology, and Vertebrate Paleontology, our mission is to explore animal form and function and how they change over the short time frame of an individual’s life history and long time frame of the history of animal life.

About the Role

This Research Technician position at the University Fossil Lab will perform the core functions of the Fossil Lab, preparing, preserving, and restoring paleontological and archaeological specimens and artifacts, and molding and casting of specimens for University of Chicago research collections. The Research Technician will also use digital tools to photogrammatize specimens for digital reconstruction and photograph specimens and artifacts for research purposes. This position assists with logistics and planning for field expedition operations, University of Chicago traveling exhibitions, and educational outreach programs scheduled at the Fossil Lab.

The job provides technical support activities related to scientific research projects. Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives, and mandates. Assists in drafting presentations on research findings.

Responsibilities

• Fossil preparation of paleontological and archaeological material.
• Conservation and stabilization of specimens for research.
• Field coordinator and camp manager for paleontological and archaeological expeditions.
• Logistical planning for field expeditions.
• Oversee the logistics for installation and de-installation of exhibits: Dinosaurs of the Sahara, SuperCroc, and Spinosaurus, traveling both domestically and internationally.
• Sample removals for data collection.
• Molding and casting of fossils for research, trade, and exhibit displays.
• Paint and mount casts for research, trade, and exhibits.
• Traditionally and digitally sculpted flesh reconstructions for research, publication, and exhibit displays.
• Photography of specimens for research and publication.
• Assists with fossil lab collections, loans, and record keeping.
• Provides technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Assists with the installation, sets up, and performs experiments; interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships, or the equivalent experience in a related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Able to work on-site at the Fossil Lab.
• Able to lift a minimum of 25 pounds.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in sciences or arts (preferred).
• Fossil preparation experience in a working laboratory.
• Casting and molding experience.
• Exhibit management and logistics experience.
• Managing field expedition logistics and camp management.
• Fossil preparation and conservation methods.

Benefits

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Pay

Pay range: $21.63 - $28.85 per hour.

Schedule

Scheduled weekly hours: 30.