Bee ecology; summer lab manager and research assistant positions

My lab studies pollination ecology, focusing on how floral resources affect pathogen transmission. We conduct field and lab research in summer, and lab experiments during the year.

In your application be sure to include your year, whether you are eligible for work study, your available dates and preferred hours/week this summer, any relevant experience or interests, how you satisfy the qualifications listed below, and how this position will benefit your career. 

I am hiring someone to train as our next undergraduate lab manager, and also summer research assistants.

The undergraduate lab manager is a key position. This person maintains our bee colonies, transfers infection to new colonies, orders supplies, and generally keeps the lab organized. In summer this is usually full-time; in the school year it is around 10 hours/week. 

Our current lab manager graduates in spring 2027. We are looking for someone to start training this summer (part- or full-time) to take over after the current manager graduates. I strongly prefer first-year students with an interest in staying through their undergraduate years.

Summer research assistants will assist a large field project asking how plant or pollinator communities affect pathogen transmission between bees in experimental tents. Any year is eligible although earlier-career students are preferred.

Work-study funding is strongly preferred but not required.

Name of research group, project, or lab
The Adler Lab
Why participate in this opportunity?

This opportunity will provide training in field ecological methods, including working with bumble bees, pathogens, and plants. We have a collaborative and friendly research group, and invite students to engage in problem-solving as part of our team. We make every effort to keep successful students in the lab, and many go on to conduct independent research and senior/honors theses. My lab has mentored hundreds of students who go on to graduate school, professional degrees and careers in the life sciences. 

 

Representative publication or further information
Logistics Information:
Subject Category
Ecology
Student ranks applicable
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Student qualifications

I am looking for students who are excellent communicators, organized and detail-oriented, proactive problem-solvers, intellectually curious, and who strive to create a supportive and collaborative lab environment where people with diverse identities can thrive.

I prefer students with a background or strong interest in ecology, entomology and/or botany. Please also describe any experience you have working outdoors, working with insects, and any position that required repetitive work and attention to detail.

Field work will require working outside and physical labor (weeding plants, mulching) in conditions that can be very hot, and carrying tools from a parking area to the field site. Lab research involves microscope use and occasionally standing for long periods of time (although sitting accommodations can be made). 

Time commitment
15+ h/wk
Position Types and Compensation
Paid - General
Paid - Work-Study Required
Number of openings
3
Techniques learned

Research assistants will learn how to inoculate, dissect and care for bumble bees, quantifying pathogen cells using a microscope, basic data collection protocols, and experimental design principles. Assistant lab manager will also learn infection protocols, more in-depth bee care, purchasing, shipping, and play a key role in maintaining lab function. 

Project start
Summer; could be late May or early June start date
Contact Information:
Mentors
lsadler@umass.edu
Principal Investigator
mspinillagal@umass.edu
Post doc
Name of project director or principal investigator
Lynn Adler
Email address of project director or principal investigator
lsadler@umass.edu
3 sp. | 0 appl.
Time commitment
15+ h/wk
Subject Category
Ecology