The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology seeks a Manager of Scientific Collections (UCP 7) for invertebrates in the Biodiversity Research and Education Collections (BREC; https://biodiversity.uconn.edu/). The invertebrate collection consists primarily of insects and parasites and supports the research and teaching activities of a large academic department and other scientific users globally. The successful candidate will organize, manage, maintain, and grow the collection.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Duties will include: identify, prepare and catalog invertebrate specimens (pinned, slide-mounted, and fluid-preserved materials) and paper archives; maintain and update records in existing databases; assist with the development and implementation of a new database for the remaining portions of the collection; provide support to faculty and students involved in collections- based research; respond to data requests; assist visiting scientists; interview, hire, train, and supervise students and volunteers; lead collection tours; contribute to collection growth; purchase equipment and supplies necessary to maintain the collection; manage incoming and outgoing loans, both physically and electronically; assist with determining short- and long-term priorities for the collection; keep informed about best practices for collection preservation and use; maintain imaging and microscopy equipment; participate in the instruction of a collections course; interact with other Collection Managers in the BREC; develop
collection-focused grant proposals in collaboration with curators; participate in collections-based outreach activities.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- M.S. degree in entomology, parasitology, or related field
- Detailed knowledge of taxonomy and zoological nomenclature
- Experience in using and maintaining relational databases in a collection setting
- Detailed knowledge of modern curatorial standards and techniques including pest control, specimen labeling, mounting, processing, and imaging
- Proficient identification skills
- Experience working with invertebrate collections
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. in entomology, parasitology, or closely related field
- At least three years prior experience working with invertebrate collections
- Experience supervising students or volunteers
- Knowledge of protocols and regulations for shipping specimens nationally and internationally, including all relevant documentation (USFWS, CITES, etc.)
APPOINTMENT TERMS
This is a full-time, 12-month position and includes full benefits with an excellent healthcare and retirement package.
TO APPLY
Please apply online at www.jobs.uconn.edu, Staff Positions, Search #2020193. Please submit a cover letter that addresses the minimum and preferred qualifications, a curriculum vitae, names of three referees (including email, phone number and mailing address). Address inquiries to Dr. Janine Caira (janine.caira@uconn.edu).
Screening will begin October 31, 2019 with an anticipated starting date of December 6, 2019.
Employment of the successful candidate will be contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check. (Search # 2020193). All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics, which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.
The University of Connecticut is committed to building and supporting a multicultural and diverse community of students, faculty and staff. The diversity of students, faculty and staff continues to increase, as does the number of honors students, valedictorians and salutatorians who consistently make UConn their top choice. More than 100 research centers and institutes serve the University’s teaching, research, diversity, and outreach missions, leading to UConn’s ranking as one of the nation’s top research universities. UConn’s faculty and staff are the critical link to fostering and expanding our vibrant, multicultural and diverse University community. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, UConn encourages applications from women, veterans, people with disabilities and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.