Project Coordinator Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment
The Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, is seeking applicants for a project coordinator for the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (HEE; www.heeforeststudy.org), a large multidisciplinary research project examining the relationship of silvicultural practices to changes in plant and animal species within forests across Indiana. This individual will coordinate all research, extension and teaching activities related to the HEE. RESPONSIBILITIES: The successful candidate will be expected to hire and supervise field technicians and a field research coordinator, implement field protocols for sampling of forest vegetation and fauna, and provide oversight for quality analysis/control associated with collection of field data. The incumbent will serve as primary contact between researchers from Purdue, Indiana State, Ball State and other universities, and the local land managers for the State of Indiana. Regular communication via emails, meetings and/or quarterly newsletters is expected to update investigators and managers on progress and success of field work; to make judgments as to the suitability of the particular field sites for research activities; and to coordinate field activities with land managers on state forests properties. The incumbent will work closely with researchers in organizing and archiving tabular and geospatial data into searchable geodatabases. The Project Coordinator will also assist in analysis of data to create annual progress and outreach materials, and may also assist researchers by assembling results into publishable manuscripts. The field sites of the HEE are located near Bloomington, Indiana. The position will be based at Purdue University’s West Lafayette campus. Therefore, the position will require significant travel between campus and the field intermittently throughout the year. The individual will also be expected to collect field data at times in adverse environmental conditions typical of southern Indiana. QUALIFICATIONS: B.S. in Forestry or a closely related field, plus one year of work experience similar to the described position, is required; an M.S. in Forestry or a closely related field with supervisory experience is preferred. The successful candidate must have working knowledge of general silvicultural operations, forest inventory techniques and wildlife sampling techniques. Strong knowledge of computer data programs for organizing data (e.g., Excel, Access, ArcGIS) and analyzing field data (e.g., SAS, R) is expected. Strong communication, organizational and interpersonal skills is required. Demonstrated technical and scientific writing skills, such as management plans or manuscripts, are preferred. SALARY: Salary range is $35,000 – $45,000 per year, commensurate with experience and training. CLOSING DATE: October 15, or until filled with a qualified candidate. STARTING DATE: December 1 is preferred, although it may be delayed to January 7, 2013, for an exceptional candidate. APPLICATION PROCESS: This position is listed at Purdue’s Careers (www.purdue.edu/careers) as Posting Number 1201582. With your application, please submit 1) a cover letter, including the names and contact information for three references, and 2) a resume or curriculum vitae. Questions may be directed to Dr. Mike Saunders via telephone (765-430-1440) or email (msaun...@purdue.edu). Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce.
