We have an immediate opening for a Field Research Coordinator, to conduct and manage a research project on environmental stressors and tree regeneration in maritime forests on Jekyll Island, GA. Maritime live oak forests are globally rare and culturally iconic, yet we have only partial understanding of the potential effects of today’s environmental stressors on the future of these systems. This project is investigating the relative effects of deer herbivory, hurricane impacts, past fire suppression, and soil water availability on forest community dynamics. - We seek an energetic, detail-oriented individual with experience in plant community ecology, forest ecology, or related research. The Coordinator will help construct and maintain deer exclosure plots; measure tree seedlings and associated vegetation in experimental arrays; supervise technicians and volunteers; organize and enter data; and interact with the public on behalf of the project. As part of this position, there is scope to develop and pursue additional research questions within the project. In addition to the project’s 3 faculty investigators and 2-3 graduate students from University of Georgia, there is a diverse, active and friendly community of ecological researchers, students, interns, and managers on the island, providing professional and academic networking opportunities. - Key requirements are: a curious, adaptable, problem-solving mindset; and ability to work independently, reliably, and carefully. Masters degree is preferred but not required. Other desirables: GPS/GIS; experimental design; Southeastern plant identification; interest in conservation and management; already residing in the area; tolerance or enjoyment of warm, humid, and sometimes buggy conditions. - This is a temporary position, and the employment arrangement is flexible. Several possible arrangements would meet the project’s needs, allowing us to work with the Coordinator’s availability and next plans. Our immediate need is 30-40 hrs/week for 4 months. This can be extended, potentially up to 8 months (or longer if part-time). Housing is not provided, but the network of researchers and students can help find rooms for rent and other arrangements. Hourly rate $11 to $14.50, depending on experience and skills. - The position is available immediately, and will be open until filled. To apply, please email a cover letter, CV with email/phone contact info of 3 references, and any other helpful info you want to include to: [email protected] Lizzie King, Assistant Professor Odum School of Ecology and Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources University of Georgia kinglab.uga.edu
