FUSE Student Researcher - Environmental Leadership Center and Biology (Part-Time Temporary / Summer 2024)

Located in the fastest-growing region of the state, the University of North Georgia is a multi-campus university with an enrollment of nearly 20,000 students, making it one of the largest institutions in the University System of Georgia. UNG is focused on a mission of educational excellence, leadership development and community engagement opportunities that develop students into leaders for a diverse and global society. Through a variety of educational pathways that provide access and range from certificates and associate degrees to a professional doctoral program, UNG is responsive to regional education and economic development needs. Federally designated as a senior military college, one of the university's signature leadership programs is its 800-member Corps of Cadets on UNG's Dahlonega Campus.

UNG Core Values: https://ung.edu/about/mission-vision-values.php

The University of North Georgia is currently accepting applications for FUSE Student Researchers in Environmental Leadership Center and Biology on the Dahlonega campus. As part of the 2024 FUSE program, student(s) will examine the effect of different types of chestnuts on soil microbiota. Microorganisms will be collected from the soil, grown on appropriate media, and counted. Selected colonies will be identified using BIOLOG identification system. The diversity of soil microorganisms will also be tested using BIOLOG ECO microplates, which examine the ability of microbes to utilize different carbon sources. The research assistant will join the FUSE program to conduct focused and meaningful research, scholarly and creative activities alongside a faculty researcher from June 3 - July 26, 2024. 

• FUSE meetings, program requirements, and activities.
• Collection of soil samples from the Hurricane Creek chestnut orchard.  
• Isolation of microbial cells from soil samples.
• Identification and quantification of bacteria and fungi in soil samples.
• Evaluation of functional diversity of soil microbial communities.
• Comparison of microbial communities collected the American, Chinese, & hybrid chestnuts.
• Document results and participate in a poster and manuscript preparation.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of basic biology lab equipment and instruments, 
• Proficiency in public speaking and interpersonal skills.

• High School Diploma/GED.
• Current UNG student not graduating before December 2024.
• Student needs to be working on a B.S. in biology or chemistry.

• Prior experience in laboratory research is a plus but not required.
• Preference will be given to biology majors with an interest in environmental microbiology.

• Resume
• Cover letter

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of North Georgia, as determined by University of North Georgia in its sole discretion, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test.

The University of North Georgia, a unit of the University System of Georgia, is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sex or national origin, age, disability, religion, genetics or veteran status. Georgia is an open records state. Also, UNG is a federal contractor and desires priority referrals of protected veterans.

• This role is considered a position of trust. 

Please note, the University of North Georgia career board updates daily and job postings are subject to be removed when closed or filled.

• Position of Trust