Grassland Ecology Research Assistant (Summer Position)

University of Nebraska–Lincoln, United States

Updated: about 18 hours ago
Location: Lincoln, NEBRASKA
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: ;

Position Information
Position Information


Working Title Grassland Ecology Research Assistant (Summer Position)
Department School of Biological Sciences-1076
Requisition Number S_240218
Posting Open Date 03/07/2024
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 03/15/2024
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Description of Work
The lab of Sabrina Russo at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (https://russolab.unl.edu/ ) seeks a summer field research assistant to aid in a project quantifying the effects of smooth sumac, a woody encroaching plant species, on rangeland plant diversity in the Nebraska sandhills. This project will inform large-scale assessments of sumac’s impact on grassland diversity, sumac encroachment rates, and point the way to better rangeland management.
The technician will gain experience (1) conducting plant identification and other field methods for assessing grassland vegetation and microclimate, (2) learning remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) techniques, (3) completing data management and analysis, and (4) working with team-based ecological research. They will accompany a graduate student, Lillie Hoffart, and a small field team. The technician would have the opportunity to develop this work into an internship or thesis project if desired. Part of the summer will be spent intensively surveying sumac at a research site along the Niobrara River, an ecologically important area with opportunities for hiking, fishing, tubing, or other recreational activities. The other part the summer will be spent traveling through the sandhills to additional research locations.
The position is full-time (40 hours/week), hourly ($15/hour) temporary (< 6 months) with no benefits. The position is available starting around May 20th through the second week of August. There can be some flexibility with start and end dates. Housing (in a dorm-style setting) and field transportation will be provided.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and diverse workforce in which employees’ differences are respected and valued to better meet the varying needs of the diverse populations we serve. The university fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment that promotes collaboration so that all individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential. As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination .
Minimum Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or degree in progress with an interest in ecology or related fields (e.g. biology, agriculture, wildlife conservation, geography); a valid driver’s license and driving record consistent with UNL’s Fleet Management requirements; ability to work and hike outdoors under a range of conditions that include steep terrain and hot or cold or other uncomfortable weather, biting insects, poison ivy, and wild animals; enthusiasm to learn new concepts and field skills, to work productively in a collaborative team, and to improve conservation and management of Great Plains grasslands.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with grassland plant ID; experience with Microsoft Excel; experience conducting field or independent research; experience working in a field team; experience with data management, GIS, or R
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required No
Physical Required No
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances. No
Criminal History Background Check Required Yes
Posted Salary $15.00/hr
How to Apply
Click on “Apply for this Job”. You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file.
Please submit (1) a 1-page cover letter describing your interest in this position, how the position would advance your career goals, relevant past experience and coursework, start date availability, and contact information for three references including e-mail addresses and phone numbers; and (2) a CV or resume.
In addition to online submission, candidates should also e-mail the graduate student leading the project (Lillie Hoffart – [email protected] ) to indicate interest in the position as soon as possible using the subject line “Ecology Research Assistant Positions.”
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact: Lillie Hoffart ([email protected]
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact: Lillie Hoffart ([email protected] )
Job Category (old) Office/Service
Job Type Full-Time Temporary
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? Yes
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date: 4/1/24
Appointment End Date 8/31/24

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