Research Specialist I

Professor Tiago R. Simões seeks a Research Specialist to join his laboratory in the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at Princeton University. Research in Simões Lab the integrates genomic and phenotypic data from living and fossil species to infer the origin of major groups of vertebrates (with stronger focus in reptiles), their evolutionary relationships, key innovations during major evolutionary transitions, and how these were impacted by climate change across broad taxonomic and time scales.

The core responsibilities of the Research Specialist will include: Collection of 2D and 3D morphometric data from extant and fossil species using specimens from natural history collections and CT-scans; Assisting on the production of publication quality figures from the data collected; Processing raw CT-scan data (e.g., production of 3D volume meshes and segmentation); Training of students and postdocs on the utilization of lab equipment (e.g., stereomicroscopes with Z-stacking, CT-scanner, etc.); Assisting lab members on their specific research projects; Optimization of laboratory workspace and workflow; Data entry and curation of long-term datasets and supervision of technical aspects of undergraduate projects.

-Collection of 2D and 3D morphometric data from extant and fossil species using specimens from natural history collections and CT-scans;

-Assisting on the production of publication quality figures from the data collected;

-Processing raw CT-scan data (e.g., production of 3D volume meshes and segmentation);

-Training of students and postdocs on the utilization of lab equipment (e.g., stereomicroscopes with Z-stacking, CT-scanner, etc.);

-Data entry and curation of long-term datasets;

-Assisting lab members on their specific research projects;

-Optimization of laboratory workspace and workflow;

-Supervision of technical aspects of undergraduate projects.

Essential

-Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, ecology and evolution, organismal biology, comparative anatomy, zoology, or related field.

-At least one year of previous research experience (undergraduate and/or MSc) working with vertebrate comparative anatomy and experience in working with digital or optical stereomicroscopes.

-Passion for comparative anatomy and working as part of a team. Ability to work independently, attention to detail in laboratory work, and meticulous record-keeping.

-Strong organizational skills and excellent communication skills are also essential.

Preferred

-Experience in working with CT-scan data and imaging software (imageJ, Dragonfly, 3D Slicer).

-Experience in collecting and processing data for geometric morphometrics.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

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