JOB DESCRIPTION - We seek two highly motivated individuals interested in
ecological field experience to fill our research assistant positions from
early May to middle/late August 2009. Our USDA-Forest Service funded
research project investigates the current distribution and health status
white ash (Fraxinus americana) within the Allegheny National Forest (ANF).
Specifically, we are examining the extent to which topographic position and
site characteristics (e.g., soil pH and nutrition) are related to white ash
decline and mortality patterns. This is the first year of a two-year
project. There is an opportunity for the research assistants to do an
independent research project within the scope of the larger project.
LOCATION - The research is located entirely within the Allegheny National
Forest located in northwestern Pennsylvania. For more information on the
regions view: http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/allegheny.
RESPONSIBILITIES - Primary responsibilities include: surveying previously
established Forest Health Monitoring Plots (USDA FHM: http://fhm.fs.fed.us)
and establishing and surveying a new set of long-term, white ash health
monitoring plots. Fieldwork represents 90% of the job. Some computer work
is required. Early mornings and long days occasionally required.
QUALIFICATIONS - Successful applicant should be hard-working,
conscientious, have good attention to detail, and be able to tolerate
rugged conditions. A background in biology/ecology/forestry/botany as well
as field experience, particularly in eastern deciduous forests, is
desirable. Skills in orienteering/GPS are also desirable.
PAY - $13.18-14.74/hr depending on experience, 40hrs/week. Onsite housing
is available at one of two Forest Service bunkhouses (~$90/mo at Kane
Experimental Forest [http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/warren/kane.html] or ~$200/mo
in Irvine, PA). A field vehicle will be provided for all job-related
travel.
APPLY NOW - Position will be filled by first qualified applicant - so apply
now.
TO APPLY OR FOR MORE INFORMATION - Send a brief letter of interest, a CV or
resume, and names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses of three
references contact:
Alejandro A. Royo
via email (preferred) [email protected]
-or-
Kathleen S. Knight
via email (preferred) [email protected]
USDA NRS, Forestry Sciences Lab
P.O. Box 267
Irvine, PA 16329
