Plant Ecology Research Technician Position in the Mordecai Lab at Stanford The Mordecai lab at Stanford University is seeking a full-time Life Science Research Assistant to lead field and laboratory experiments in grassland community ecology. The position, based out of Palo Alto, CA, will involve extensive field work in Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve ( http://jrbp.stanford.edu/) and other grassland field sites in California, as well as lab work on Stanford campus. Project objectives will include studying how interactions between grassland plants and their pathogens shape population and community dynamics, and how climate variation may mediate these outcomes. Please visit my website to learn more about my research interests: https://sites.google.com/site/erinmordecai/ . Activities will include planting, weeding, and harvesting plant field experiments, censusing fungal pathogens in the field, and weighing and sorting plant samples in the lab.
Qualifications: The candidate must have a B.S. in ecology, biology, or related field. Preference will be given to candidates with previous field research experience, particularly with plants, and with familiarity with the California flora. The candidate must be able to engage in field work requiring long periods outdoors in sometimes hot or rainy conditions, frequently stand, walk, bend, squat, perform desk-based computer tasks, lift, carry, push and pull objects over 40 pounds. The candidate must be able to work in a dusty and dirty environment (outside). The candidate must have a driver’s license. Strong organizational and communication skills are required, and data management skills are desired. The candidate must have general computers skills and the ability to quickly learn and master computer programs. The position requires strong analytical skills, excellent judgment, and the ability to work under deadlines with general guidance. Responsibilities: Plans and performs experiments based on knowledge of scientific theory in support of PI’s research projects. Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes. Interpret and perform basic analysis of the results in conjunction with the PI. Offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols. General lab maintenance, maintains lab stock, managing chemical inventory, safety records and providing general lab support as needed. Help orient and train new staff or students. Duration and start date: The position will be filled as soon as possible. Initial appointment is for up to one year, December 1, 2014 through November 30, 2015, with possible additional support dependent upon funding and satisfactory performance. Compensation will be commensurate with experience. To apply: Submit a letter of interest describing background and interest in the position, curriculum vitae, and the contact information for at least three references to the Stanford Careers website, http://stanfordcareers.stanford.edu/. For more information, contact Dr. Mordecai by email at [email protected]. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
