Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.), a non-profit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. We are currently planning the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 atmospheric, environmental and biological monitoring experiments distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & the Caribbean, monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. A leading-edge flexible cyber-infrastructure is being designed to support current and future needs of the Observatory.
Term of Position This position will be funded for one year initially with the possibility of transition to a full-time staff scientist on the NEON science team as deemed appropriate based on the success of the tasks performed during the first year. Position Summary: Freshwater Biogeochemist will be responsible for designing and developing the aquatic biogeochemical components of the NEON Observatory, including developing field and lab procedures and protocols for data collection, QA/QC, and training; define analytical laboratory requirements; prototype instrument installation. Essential Responsibilities and Goals for the First Year: •Develop and oversee research to track chemistry and isotopic composition of surface and groundwater, aquatic microbes, algae, aquatic plants, invertebrates. •Develop the scientific rationale for biogeochemical measurements and methods. •Develop detailed sampling designs of biogeochemical measurement in streams and ponds, including reaeration rating curve development. •Collaborate with NEON engineers and scientists to prototype in-situ instrument installation •Participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in independent research and collaborations. Preferred Experience: •Additional knowledge of pond and lake biogeochemical cycles preferred. •Experience working with federal and state agencies. Education: •PhD in aquatic ecology, aquatic biogeochemistry or related field. Specialization in the biological-chemical linkages of freshwater ecosystems. Required Experience: •3-5 years research experience in aquatic ecology, with emphasis in freshwater or algal chemistry. •Demonstrated experience working in streams and rivers of North America. •Significant experience working with in-situ automated instrumentation. •Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative scientific and engineering enterprise. Skills and Abilities: •Scientific writing and review •Proficiency in analyses that correlate biological data with abiotic variables and ability to perform such analyses within a geospatial framework •Ability to work independently, but as part of an active Science team •Strong communication and interpersonal skills •Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects •Travel to domains at least 6x/year Physical Requirements: •The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as dirt banks, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. TO APPLY: Please send your cover letter and CV/resume to care...@neoninc.org with Freshwater Biogeochemist in the subject line. Review of applications will begin July 20, 2009. NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
