POSITION TITLE:
#2011003352
Research Assistant in Dryland Ecosystem Ecology
POSITION SUMMARY: This position will assist with laboratory and field research on
ecosystem ecology in arid and semi-arid systems. The position will include work
establishing and maintaining several field experiments, processing and analyzing
plant and soil samples in the laboratory, and supervising undergraduate
researchers. Field work will include long hours under difficult conditions.
This is a full-time position (1.0 FTE). The duration of this position is
contingent upon availability of funding.
The position will be based primarily at New Mexico State University, but may
require travel for laboratory analyses and fieldwork throughout the United
States.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
*
*
*
*
Establish and maintain field projects and equipment
Process and analyze soil and plant samples in the laboratory
Compile and summarize data
Prepare tables and figures for publications; assist with project
report development
* Supervise, direct, delegate, and evaluate work of assigned staff
* Perform related duties as required
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of: Computer data entry (e.g, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel,
SigmaPlot); use of laboratory analytical equipment (e.g., analytical balance,
microbalance, elemental analyzer); field measurements (e.g., leaf water
potential, soil respiration, photosynthesis).
Skills in: Short-and long-range planning; data compilation and synthesis; oral
and written communication; field and laboratory research techniques; and
processing and analyzing large numbers of plant and soil samples.
Ability to: Direct, evaluate, train, and supervise the work of assigned
personnel; develop and maintain effective working relationships; maintain
accurate and orderly records and data files; use independent judgment and
initiative; organize and direct activities; analyze and evaluate information.
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor's Degree in biology, ecology, soil science, environmental science, or a
related field. Experience with laboratory analytical techniques and ecological
fieldwork is strongly preferred. Good communication, quantitative, and
organizational skills are required.
REPLY TO/DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: Compile a formal letter of interest, current
resume, copies of college transcripts, and three professional references
(including names, titles, addresses, daytime phone numbers, and email addresses)
into a single pdf file. Email this file as an attachment to: Dr. Heather Throop,
throop@nmsu.edu <mailto:throop@nmsu.edu>
Review of applications begins August 5, 2011 and remains open until filled.
Incomplete application packets will not be considered.
For additional information, contact:
Dr. Heather Throop
New Mexico State University
Biology Department, MSC 3AF
Las Cruces, NM
88003
throop@nmsu.edu <mailto:throop@nmsu.edu>
Starting date is negotiable, but a start date of September 2011 is preferred.
Benefits Offered: Group medical insurance, group life insurance, long-term
disability insurance, state educational retirement, workers'
compensation, sick leave, annual leave and unemployment compensation.
NMSU IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER. Offer of employment is
contingent upon verification of individual's eligibility for employment in the
United States. All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent on the
University's verification of credentials and other information required by
Federal Law, State Law, and NMSU policies/procedures, and may include the
completion of a criminal history check.
-Heather Throop
Assistant Professor
Biology Department
New Mexico State University
MSC 3AF
Las Cruces, NM 88003
575-646-5970
throop@nmsu.edu
http://biology-web.nmsu.edu/throop/