Aquatic Diagnostic Student Research Assistant
Job Description
Proficiency in laboratory work and especially in molecular and histological methods will make this student much more likely to either be hired by a laboratory after graduating or be more likely to obtain a graduate school position.
Year 1
Responsibility/Function
In year one the FIT students will become familiar with the Aquatic diagnostic lab and the methods used in diagnosing different fish, shellfish and bivalves diseases. The person will work directly with either other students, lab technicians, lab manager or Dr. Sharon. During the year, it is expected the student learn how to collect and preserve Oysters, clams and fish samples for diagnosis, trim in tissues for histological processing, help with general lab maintenance, produce various solutions which can be used in the lab and help with ongoing experiments.
Year 2
Responsibility/Function
During year 2- the FIT students will continue to learn methods used in the lab as described above, but will be trained to prepare samples for and to conduct diagnostic and research based PCRs and other molecular test methods used in the lab. This work will be guided by the technician and lab manager, but will involve more independence that occurred in year one.
Year 3
Responsibility/Function
It is expected that the students will be competent in most of the laboratory diagnostic methods used by the end of year 3 and can not only conduct procedures alone, but also help to provide training to other students coming into the lab. Additionally, the student is encouraged to work on one specific subject area and to develop an expertise in that area in the senior year.
*Students are prohibited from driving during work-study employment with the limited exception of authorized work-study driver positions.