Job Announcement: Invasive Plant Ecology Field Technician in St. Louis, Missouri
Job Description: We are hiring a field technician for our experimental research on the population dynamics of invasive plant species based out of the Washington University Department of Biology and Tyson Research Center. Our research strives to understand why some plant species are noxious invaders while others are benign members of the community. We examine the interactive roles of plant evolutionary history, plant responses to disturbances (in particular, fire), and plant- animal interactions. The research involves collecting demographic data on native and exotic plants in different treatments and then projecting plant population dynamics. The hiree will work closely with Tiffany Knight performing tasks related to data collection, data analysis, and project maintenance. Location: Washington Universitys Tyson Research Center (http://www.tyson.wustl.edu/) is located near St. Louis Missouri. Glades, prairies, and oak-hickory forests comprise the 2, 000 acre research area. It is home to more than 550 plant species as well as hundreds of insect species. Education: Bachelors degree or higher. Preferred experience: Applicants should have experience collecting field ecological data, managing databases (including proficiency with Microsoft Excel), identifying plants and insects, and collecting plant demographic data. Experience programming in R is useful but not required. Other critical skills: Applicants should be capable of working in inclement weather and rough terrain, carrying heavy equipment, walking long distances, following directions and working independently, solving problems in the field, and leading a diverse crew of undergraduate and high school students. General Information: Start date is negotiable, but preference will be given to individuals who can start on or before May 1, 2014. This is a full-time 1 year position with potential to be renewed for up to three years based on performance evaluations. Please submit a current resume/CV, names of three references, and a cover letter outlining your background and interests, including any botanical experience or training. Application materials are due March 15, 2014. To view the complete job description and to apply, please visit the Washington University employment website at https://jobs.wustl.edu and search for job title "Research/Lab Technician II or job id 27573 in the keyword search. If you have any questions about the position, please contact Tiffany Knight ([email protected]).
