Student research assistants needed May 20th through August 16th 2013 to assist with studies of the effects of global change on grassland ecosystems at the Grassland, Soil and Water Research Laboratory in Temple, Texas.
Duties: The student will assist with several research projects studying the effects of atmospheric carbon dioxide on native grassland productivity and diversity, the effects of precipitation variability on the productivity of native grasses used in bioenergy production, and the differences in productivity between diverse and monoculture grasslands. Duties will include field measurements of plants and soils, preparation of plant and soil samples for laboratory analysis, data entry, and setting up of experiments. Applicants must be able to work independently. Work conditions: Work conditions in a laboratory, or field setting may range from sedentary to primarily physical. Work may require walking, standing, bending, and carrying items ranging from lightweight to moderately heavyweight in hot and humid outdoor conditions. Work involves everyday risks or discomforts that require normal safety precautions. Skills: To be considered, students must have completed their sophomore year with at least a 3.0 grade point average overall and a 3.5 grade point average in math and science classes. The position may be extended depending on funding and performance. How to apply: To apply, send a letter of application, copy of current transcripts, and contact information for two references with firsthand knowledge of your classroom/laboratory science experience and aptitude by April 1st . Send applications in electronic form only to: Dr. Lara Reichmann, [email protected] Disclaimer: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination against its customers. If you believe you experienced discrimination when obtaining services from USDA, participating in a USDA program, or participating in a program that receives financial assistance from USDA, you may file a complaint with USDA. Information about how to file a discrimination complaint is available from the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights. To file a complaint of discrimination, complete, sign and mail a program discrimination complaint form, available at any USDA office location or online at www.ascr.usda.gov, or write to: USDA Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W. Washington, DC 20250-9410 Or call toll free at (866) 632-9992 (voice) to obtain additional information, the appropriate office or to request documents. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay service at (800) 877-8339 or (800) 845-6136 (in Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).
