POSITION TITLE: Research Assistant in Dryland Ecosystem Ecology
#2011003352
POSITION SUMMARY: This position will assist with laboratory and field
research on ecosystem ecology in arid and semi-arid systems. The
position will include work establishing and maintaining several field
experiments, processing and analyzing plant and soil samples in the
laboratory, and supervising undergraduate researchers. Field work will
include long hours under difficult conditions.
This is a full-time position (1.0 FTE). The duration of this position
is contingent upon availability of funding.
The position will be based primarily at New Mexico State University, but
may require travel for laboratory analyses and fieldwork throughout the
United States.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Establish and maintain field projects and equipment
* Process and analyze soil and plant samples in the laboratory
* Compile and summarize data
* Prepare tables and figures for publications; assist with project
report development
* Supervise, direct, delegate, and evaluate work of assigned staff
* Perform related duties as required
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of: Computer data entry (e.g, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel,
SigmaPlot); use of laboratory analytical equipment (e.g., analytical
balance, microbalance, elemental analyzer); field measurements (e.g.,
leaf water potential, soil respiration, photosynthesis).
Skills in: Short-and long-range planning; data compilation and
synthesis; oral and written communication; field and laboratory research
techniques; and processing and analyzing large numbers of plant and soil
samples.
Ability to: Direct, evaluate, train, and supervise the work of assigned
personnel; develop and maintain effective working relationships;
maintain accurate and orderly records and data files; use independent
judgment and initiative; organize and direct activities; analyze and
evaluate information.
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor's Degree in biology, ecology, soil science, environmental
science, or a related field. Experience with laboratory analytical
techniques and ecological fieldwork is strongly preferred. Good
communication, quantitative, and organizational skills are required.
REPLY TO/DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: Compile a formal letter of
interest, current resume, copies of college transcripts, and three
professional references (including names, titles, addresses, daytime
phone numbers, and email addresses) into a single pdf file. Email this
file as an attachment to: Dr. Heather Throop, [email protected]
<mailto:[email protected]>
Review of applications begins August 5, 2011 and remains open until
filled. Incomplete application packets will not be considered.
For additional information, contact:
Dr. Heather Throop
New Mexico State University
Biology Department, MSC 3AF
Las Cruces, NM 88003
[email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>
Starting date is negotiable, but a start date of September 2011 is
preferred.
Benefits Offered: Group medical insurance, group life insurance,
long-term disability insurance, state educational retirement, workers'
compensation, sick leave, annual leave and unemployment compensation.
NMSU IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER. Offer of
employment is contingent upon verification of individual's eligibility
for employment in the United States. All offers of employment, oral and
written, are contingent on the University's verification of credentials
and other information required by Federal Law, State Law, and NMSU
policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a criminal
history check.
--
Heather Throop
Assistant Professor
Biology Department
New Mexico State University
MSC 3AF
Las Cruces, NM 88003
575-646-5970
[email protected]
http://biology-web.nmsu.edu/throop/
