Microscope and genetic work for freshwater mussel conservation

We are looking for assistance with sample preparation for freshwater mussel conservation research projects. This position entails extracting mussel larvae (glochidia) from fish gill samples, documenting samples collected, and preparing samples for DNA extraction. 

Through this position, technicians will learn and use the following skills:

  • Use of dissecting and compound microscopes
  • Identification of freshwater mussel larvae (glochidia)
  • Use of micropipettes
  • Use of microscope cameras
  • Data entry and organization

Training will be provided, but this position will be largely unsupervised.

Name of research group, project, or lab
Roy Lab/MA Coop Unit
Website
https://www1.usgs.gov/coopunits/unit/Massachusetts
Why participate in this opportunity?
  • Learn transferrable laboratory skills
  • Learn organizational and data entry skills
  • Learn about freshwater mussel life history, including host fish use
  • Contribute to research for conservation of threatened and endangered species
  • Possibility for this position to lead to future technician positions or honors projects
Representative publication or further information
Largemouth Bass gill with mussel glochidia attached.docx
Logistics Information:
Subject Category
Biology
Ecology
Ecology and Environmental Sustainability
Environmental Science
Genetics
Natural Resources Conservation
Science (Interdepartmental)
Student ranks applicable
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Student qualifications

Applicants should have precise attention to detail, ability to work independently, and be comfortable working for multiple hours on repetitive tasks. They should also be comfortable working in laboratory conditions and using harmful chemicals (ethanol) and sharp tools (dissecting probes, scissors, etc.). Academic background in biology or natural sciences preferred. Training will be provided, but this position will be largely unsupervised; therefore, applicants must be able to communicate effectively and ask questions.

Note: due to the nature of this work, applicants must be available for at least 2 consecutive hours to participate in this project

Time commitment
1-4 h/wk
5-7 h/wk
8-10 h/wk
Position Types and Compensation
Research - Ind. Study Credit
Research - Volunteer
Number of openings
5
Techniques learned
  • dissection
  • microscope (dissecting and compound)
  • microscope camera
  • micropipette
  • data entry
Project start
ASAP
Contact Information:
Mentor
Stefanie Farrington
sjfarrington@umass.edu
Graduate Student
Name of project director or principal investigator
Allison Roy
Email address of project director or principal investigator
aroy@eco.umass.edu
5 sp. | 44 appl.
Hours
1-4 h/wk (+2)
1-4 h/wk5-7 h/wk8-10 h/wk
Project categories
Genetics (+6)
BiologyEcologyEcology and Environmental SustainabilityEnvironmental ScienceGeneticsNatural Resources ConservationScience (Interdepartmental)