Position Available: Research Assistant at California National Primate Research Center, UC Davis
Amy Nathman
The McCowan-Vandeleest
Lab of Biobehavioral Complexity is seeking a research assistant to conduct behavioral
observations as part of our Social Network Analysis and Health projects.
Under general supervision of PI, assist and perform assigned formal behavioral observation methods to monitor, record, and analyze social interactions between nonhuman primates in large group enclosures and evaluate rates and levels of aggression and affiliation in the primate breeding corrals. Assist and conduct intensive behavioral observations (6+ hours per day) and interobserver reliabilities on 45 corrals housing up to 180 nonhuman primates. Provide support and assist in the conducting of research on social aggression and stability of large corrals to develop efficacious management strategies. Collect data on daily management activities and environmental variables for corrals. Assist in experimental social manipulation of breeding corrals.
Qualifications:
- Experience utilizing formal behavioral observation methods and techniques to monitor and record social interactions among nonhuman primates living in large groups.
- Experience using MS Excel and MS Access for data entry, upload, review, and maintenance.
- Experience following research protocols and oral/written instruction with attention to detail.
- Knowledge and technical experience in behavioral observation and data collection of rhesus macaques, preferably with social network type data.
- Experience working with macaques, ranging from infants weighing < 1 pound to adults weighing >30 pounds, safely and in a manner that promotes animal welfare including recognizing changes in animal physical appearance or behavior.
- Interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills to interact professionally with a diverse group of people including but not limited to investigators, visitors, veterinarians, students, and staff.
- Knowledge of the principles and practices of animal behavioral observation and data collection.
- Skills to use handheld electronic devices to collect behavioral data.
- Experience manipulating and analyzing computerized records of behavioral observations.
- Laboratory experience processing biological samples.
- Independent thinking and problem solving skills for research and technical problems to make the appropriate judgment to report when an animal requires veterinary attention.
Apply By: March 25, 2024
Salary Range: $21.47 - $25.29 /hour
For full job description and to apply: