Research Assistant - Part Time

The Indianapolis Zoo is seeking a part-time Research Assistant to assist the Science and Research Department's research efforts with primates including Chimpanzees and Orangutans. Primary responsibilities will include participating in observational studies of primates at the Zoo, conducting scientific literature reviews, and assisting the Director of Research and Postdoctoral Research Associate in conducting scientific activities.

Ideal candidates are committed to advancing the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. Must have a high school diploma or equivalent and currently pursuing a bachelor's degree or graduate degree from an accredited institution in a related field of study. The successful individual must have a personality suitable to working with and establishing a relationship with great apes.

Some prior experience working with exotic and zoo animals is preferrable. This role will require some weekends and evenings. Pay rate for this exciting position is $15.00/ hr.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Assists the Director of Research in observational studies of primates at the Zoo, conducting scientific literature reviews, and helping to oversee and coordinate the activities of the Research Department's volunteer programs.
• Conducts scientific literature searches, reviews, and summaries to support ongoing research projects, including the synthesis of relevant studies from peer-reviewed journals and other academic sources.
• Has direct responsibility and accountability for conducting research in a manner that meets of exceeds AZA, IZS, and other applicable professional requirements.
• Has direct responsibility and accountability for performing duties in a professional and courteous manner.
  
  Assists Research department volunteers and interns with using a tablet and Zoo Monitor software.
• May observe and assist with conducting physical examinations, diagnostic testing, and interpretation of laboratory results.
• May receive training on ZIMS to assist with record keeping responsibilities.
• Must be able to perform very heavy work exerting at least 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/ or up to 25 pounds of force frequently.
• Ability to transport and move items, exerting at least 48 pounds of force occasionally, and/ or up to 25 pounds of force frequently.
• Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain while maintaining body equilibrium to perform various jobs.
• Ability to detect, assess, identify, and observe surroundings to make sound judgments, along with the ability to communicate verbally, comprehend and decipher information accurately, using a two-way radio and telephone.
• Must follow Universal Protection Precautions and Bloodborne Pathogens Guidelines. Must have good observational skills.
• Must be temperamentally suited to working with animals, especially primates.
• Must have the patience and capability to establish relationships with the primates in the collection.
• Must be team-oriented with good communication skills.
• Must be highly organized and effective with record-keeping skills.
• Must have excellent writing and documentation skills.
• Must be an intermediate user of Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint.

• Interested candidates must complete an online application on the Indianapolis Zoo's website.
• Interested candidates must include a resumé, cover letter, and salary requirements to be considered.

Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.