Uncovering the environmental and biological drivers of seasonal West Nile virus transmission
Source: https://ugresearch.osu.edu/research-postings/uncovering-environmental-and-biological-drivers-seasonal-west-nile-virus Parent: https://ugresearch.osu.edu/research-positions
Field of Study:
Biology, Entomology
Department:
Entomology
Rank of Student:
1-3 year students
Desired Majors:
Biology, Entomology, Environmental Sciences, Animal Sciences, Molecular Genetics, Evolution/Ecology, or related fields
Hours per Week:
15
Compensation Type:
Salary / Stipend
Application Deadline:
February 20, 2026
Contact:
Dr. Megan Meuti (meuti.1@osu.edu) and Ms. Anna Grimenstein (grimenstein.2@osu.edu)
Private
Public
Project Description
The Meuti Lab is seeking 1-2 highly motivated Undergraduate Field and Laboratory Technicians to join our team and help us conduct critical research on the environmental and biological drivers of seasonal West Nile virus transmission. The successful applicant(s) will help us to understand the epidemiology of these diseases and developing effective prevention and control strategies, and is supported by a recently funded Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Diseases grant that has been funded through the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to public health by studying the complex relationship between mosquitoes, disease, and the environment.\ \ Responsibilities will include: (1) collecting mosquitoes from the field using standard traps; (2) identifying mosquitoes to species using morphological traits; (3) conduct molecular assays to determine whether mosquitoes were infected with West Nile virus; (4) use PCR-based assays to determine the source of vertebrate blood within the guts of blood-fed mosquitoes; (5) maintain detailed records of laboratory procedures, results and findings; (6) assist in maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment.\ \ Disease Detection (5%): Conduct molecular assays to determine the presence of West Nile virus in mosquito samples.\ \ Blood Meal Analysis (5%): Identify the blood sources of mosquitoes to track disease transmission patterns and potential hosts.\ \ Data Management (5%): Maintain detailed records of laboratory procedures, results, and findings.\ \ Laboratory Maintenance (15%): Assist in maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment.
Additional Information
Dr. Megan Meuti has advised over 30 undergraduate students from diverse disciplinary and social backgrounds. We pride ourselves on creating an inclusive environment where everyone’s skills and contributions are appreciated and valued. Dr. Meuti is committed to helping undergraduate researchers acheive their personal and professional goals. Former mentees have gone to graduate school, medical school, veterinary school, and/or secured positions working for government and industry.
Required Applicant Information
Students should complete their applications on Workday by searching position R144061. \ \ Student should provide:\ 1. A cover letter that clearly explains why you are interested in this position, how this position is related to previous work/research experiences, how this position relates to your professional development/career goals, assertion that you meet the minimum qualifications for this position (e.g., you can work 10-15 hrs starting March 1, 2026; you have a valid driver’s license; you are willing to continue working on this project through SU2026 and AU2026; you have taken relevant coursework; etc.)\ 2. A detailed resume that includes your current GPA, list of relevant courses that you have taken and grades, description of all previous work and research experiences, names and contact information for 3 references.\ \ After reviewing the applications, Dr. Megan Meuti and/or Anna Grimenstein will contact you to schedule a Zoom interview.\ \ 2. A detailed resume that includes\ \ Current GPA\ \ List of relevant courses that you have taken and grades in those courses\ \ Description of all previous work and research experiences\ \ Names and contact information for 3 references\ \ \ \ After reviewing the applications, Dr. Megan Meuti and/or Anna Grimenstein will contact you to schedule a Zoom interview.
Required or Desired Skills
Minimum Qualifications: (1) A valid driver’s license; (2) the ability to work ~15 hrs/wk during SP2026 and AU2026 and ~35 hrs/wk during SU26; (3) completion of relevant coursework in biology, ecology and/or entomology; (4) strong attention to detail and organizational skills; (5) ability to work independently and as part of a team.\ \ Preferred Qualifications: (1) Experience with mosquito identification and handling; (2) experience conducting field work, and/or working in a laboratory and managing data.
Faculty Member Lead:
Megan Meuti
Starting Semester:
Spring
Length of Project (in semesters):
3