Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.
Term: This is a 6-month position. Location: Work can be done remotely. The work schedule is flexible and can be modified to meet the needs of the successful candidate. Weekly telecons with the Aquatic Team Lead will be required and occasional trips to HQ (Boulder, CO) are anticipated. Summary: The Aquatic Microbe Ecologist will design and document the freshwater microbial components of the NEON Observatory including detailed sampling designs and analytical protocols for freshwater microbial measurements in streams/rivers and lakes; refining measurements; documenting procedures and protocols for field data collection, and analytical laboratory processing; lab contract technical input. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • The scope of the Aquatic microbial sampling is defined from prior reports and the STREON Design. This position will assess that initial design and provide updated information where necessary. • Draft field sample collection procedures for streams, rivers, and lakes. • Define proper sample preservation, shipping, and storage. • Define sample processing steps at the analytical lab. • Assist with technical input to lab contracts and evaluation of analytical labs who will process NEON samples during Operations. • In addition, the Ecologist will be expected to interact with the aquatic and terrestrial science teams and collaborate on data product development. • The Aquatic Microbe Ecologist is expected to produce reports and publications of NEON procedures and protocols and is encouraged to collaborate with the research community to investigate continental scale ecology. Education: • PhD in aquatic microbial ecology, or closely related field. Specialization in aquatic microbial ecology with hands-on experience in sample collection processing in both streams and lakes. Required Experience: • Currently enrolled in or completed a Postdoctoral position related to the role of microbes in freshwater ecosystems. • 2+ years research experience in freshwater microbial ecology, with emphasis in the role of microbes in freshwater ecosystem structure and function. • Familiar with or completed a STAMPs course • Familiar with Earth Microbiome Project (EMP) • 2+ field experience working in streams, rivers, and lakes of North America. • Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative scientific and engineering enterprise. Preferred Experience: • Working knowledge of North American stream and lake dynamics preferred. • Experience working with federal and state agencies and NGO’s. Skills and Abilities: • Demonstrated ability to write technical and scientific documents. • Proficiency in analyses of microbe diversity and function. • Ability to work independently, but as part of an active science team. • Strong communication and interpersonal skills. • Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual Observatory tasks. • Ability to work independently, and as part of an active science team. Apply to: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
