One or more research technician positions are available with a landscape ecology experiment involving the restoration of longleaf pine forest understory plant communities, coupled with experimental manipulations of surrounding pine plantation characteristics (e.g., tree density, fire frequency) to understand how management affects the spread of restored communities at large spatial scales. This project will be conducted at the Savannah River Site, near Aiken, SC, in collaboration with PI’s John Orrock, Ellen Damschen, and Lars Brudvig, Project Manager Joe Ledvina (all of Washington University in St. Louis), and the USDA Forest Service- Savannah River. The successful candidate will assist in all facets of this research, with job duties including vegetation, soil, and small mammal surveys, and conducting experiments to evaluate the spatial dynamics of plant-animal interactions (e.g. seed predation, seed dispersal) within the experimental landscapes. Pay rate will be $10/hour. The preferred start date is October 15, 2009, with the position lasting from 3-6 months.
Technicians will live near the Savannah River Site in SC. Successful candidates will hold a bachelor’s degree in ecology, biology, or a related discipline and must be able to endure hot and humid conditions and long hours in the field. Previous field research experience is mandatory. Candidates already possessing qualifications for the other job duties listed above will be especially favorably received. Because the Savannah River Site is a highly secure area run by the U.S. Department of Energy, non-United States citizens may have difficulty gaining clearance to work there. Review of applicants will begin shortly and interested individuals should apply ASAP. To apply, please email a CV and cover letter describing your qualifications, why this job is interesting to you, dates of availability, and contact information with email addresses for three references to Lars Brudvig: [email protected]. Women and Minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. Washington University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
