Research Specialist I at Princeton University – Princeton, New Jersey

Department Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
Category Research and Laboratory
Job Type Full-Time

Overview

The Carter Lab is seeking a highly motivated individual to join an ongoing project on studying the social behavior of vampire bats. The successful candidate will play a central role on our team in documenting, analyzing, and experimentally testing social interactions among bats in a laboratory setting. Responsibilities will include recording vampire bats, scoring animal behavior, operating recording equipment, and handling animals under supervision.

Candidates must be willing to work late evenings and early mornings to monitor bat activity as necessary.

This position is ideal for someone interested in animal social behavior, and who is comfortable working with bats and biological materials.

The role will be full-time for two years with potential for extension.

Responsibilities

Behavioral Recording & Analysis (50%)
• Record and analyze videos of vampire bat social behavior.
• Observe and score animal behaviors (e.g., grooming, food sharing, aggression, proximity)
• Set up cameras and monitoring equipment.

Behavioral Experimentation (40%)
• Set up experimental arenas.
• Carry out behavioral trials according to established protocols.
• Assist with animal handling under supervision.
• Record experimental conditions and outcomes accurately.
• Collect biological samples, such as urine.

Food Collection & Preparation (10%)
• Assist with collection, storage, and preparation of blood meals.
• Follow strict bio-safety and animal welfare protocols.
• Maintain cleanliness and proper handling of biological materials.

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications:

• Basic computer skills (Excel, video software, data entry).
• Strong attention to detail.
• Willingness to work with animals and biological materials.
• Ability to follow protocols precisely and work independently.
• Must work well in a team.
• Tasks may include evening or early morning operation, depending on bat activity.
• Work involves standing, light lifting, and prolonged observation.
• Must be comfortable in animal housing and laboratory environments.
• A driver's license is required to transport blood meals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Interest in bat biology, social behavior, cooperation, or animal cognition.
• Experience with animal care or field/lab research.
• Basic experience with coding in R.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity 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.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Standard Weekly Hours
36.25

Eligible for Overtime
Yes

Benefits Eligible
Yes

Probationary Period
90 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)
No

Physical Capacity Exam Required
No

Valid Drivers License Required
No

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Salary Range
$41,000 to $60,000