Researcher Assistant - GSLI

Position Summary

We seek research assistants to support a behavioral ecology research project involving the escape behavior of side-blotched lizards (Uta stansburiana) around Great Salt Lake. The students will be trained in key research skills and support the project by assisting with site surveys, experimental design, executing behavioral trials, and assisting with data analysis. The research assistants may also design their own research project depending on their level of interest and commitment.

This position may be of special interest to students contemplating graduate school and seeking research experience. The students will work under the guidance of Dr. Claudia Ki, GSLI faculty, staff, undergraduate researchers, and other research assistants. While this position is for the spring of 2027, preference will be given to applicants who are interested in continuing this research during the summer of 2027.

Primary Responsibilities & Tasks

• Report to GSLI Coordinator on a weekly basis
• Meet with Dr. Ki on a weekly basis
• Read and synthesize a review of relevant literature
• Learn to identify side-blotched lizards
• Assist in research design and methodology
• Assist in site surveys at Great Sale Lake
• Learn and assist in transcribing data, data management, and analysis (using R)
• Engage with GSLI activities to develop an understanding of our mission and ongoing work
• Support GSLI public education and outreach efforts on Great Salt Lake, including event tabling and assisting in presentations at public and campus community events
• Participate in conducting research, including joining field trips to the lake, data collection (running behavioral trials) and analysis, and laboratory work
• Represent Westminster University professionally at all GSLI events
• Present research at conferences and the Westminster Student Showcase

Learning Outcomes

• Gain foundational knowledge and skills in the quantitative research process
• Strengthen science communication skills by supporting written and verbal dissemination of research
• Acquire experience in preparing for and carrying out behavioral studies
• Gain foundational research skills with increasing independence
• Develop proficiency R
• Build consistency, attention to detail, and reliability in data collection and team collaboration
• Experience collaborative, place-based research in collaboration with faculty members and community partners.

Required Qualifications

• Must be a student at Westminster University
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite or willingness to learn
• Proficiency in R or willingness to learn
• Organizational and time management skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Willingness and ability to carry out behavioral trials at Great Salt Lake
• Interest in research and methodology
• Ability to engage in collaborative teamwork

Preferred Qualifications

• DATA 220
• Interest in summer research (2027)

Diversity and Inclusion

Promote an Inclusive Westminster through demonstration of the commitments include in the Westminster University Diversity Statement. Participate in developmental activities to increase understanding and awareness of issues related diversity, equity and Inclusion both individually and as related to my filed of work, profession or discipline.

For questions about this position, please contact Claudia Ki at kki@westminsteru.edu.