Undergraduate Research Assistant: Molecular Ecology Summer 2026

Job Posting Title:

Undergraduate Research Assistant: Molecular Ecology Summer 2026

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Hiring Department:

Department of Integrative Biology

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Position Open To:

All Applicants

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Weekly Scheduled Hours:

20

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FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt from FLSA

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Earliest Start Date:

Jun 22, 2026

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Position Duration:

Expected to Continue Until Aug 15, 2026

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Location:

BRACKENRIDGE FIELD LAB

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Job Details:

Undergraduate Research Assistant needed to assist with molecular ecology research at the Brackenridge Field Labs, located off the main UT campus, where science is studied and taught in an open and mentor-based environment.  The molecular laboratory supports research into invasive species of plants and insects, their ecological and microbial interactions, and biological controls.

Job responsibilities:

• Perform DNA/RNA extractions, PCR reactions, and gel electrophoresis, requiring competency with use of micropipettes
• Prepare laboratory materials and supplies
• Sample curation and data management of results.

Qualifications:

Current UT student in undergraduate program related to biological sciences.

Work Schedule:

Summer appointment: flexible 15-20 hours per week, 3+ hour blocks required.

Location: Brackenridge Field Laboratory

Duration:

This position is available for Summer 2026 (Jun - Aug); with a possibility of extension to Fall 2026.

Salary:

$12.50/hour for Lower Division, $15.00/hour for Upper Division

Applicants must include:

Letter of interest, state availability and other time commitments in Summer.

CV with relevant coursework, GPA & research experience

Names of 2 references

Career Competencies Gained:

• Communicate in a clear and organized manner so that others can effectively understand
• Make decisions and solve problems using sound, inclusive reasoning and judgment
• Act equitably with integrity and accountability to self, others, and the organization
• Demonstrate attentiveness to detail and reliability

Majors

Botany/Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Zoology, Biology, Ecology, Genetics, Immunology, Microbiology, Physiological Science, Cell Biology

Desired skills:

• Data recording experience
• Molecular lab experience
• Responsible time management
• A passion for learning and contributing
• Team-oriented
• Detail-oriented
• Ability to maintain focus with repetitive tasks
• Good communication skills, written and oral

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Employment Eligibility:

Please make sure you meet all the required qualifications and you can perform all of the essential functions with or without a reasonable accommodation.

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Retirement Plan Eligibility:

Students in this position may choose to enroll in the UTSaver voluntary retirement programs.

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Background Checks:

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

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Equal Opportunity Employer:

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

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Pay Transparency:

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, inc