Background The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is the land-grant university of the Nation’s Capital. The College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES) embodies the land- grant tradition of UDC and offers academic programs in urban agriculture, urban sustainability, water resources management, nutrition and dietetics, urban architecture and community planning.
Position Description CAUSES seeks a Graduate Assistant to join its Professional Science Master’s Program in Urban Agriculture (https://www.udc.edu/programs/professional-science-masters-degree-psm- in-water-and-resources-management/). The Graduate Assistant will evaluate the use of repurposed waste for production of specialty crops. Of particular interest is how green waste mulch may alter inputs (fertilizer, irrigation, and weed management) and outputs (yield and nutrient density). Research sites may include UDC’s agricultural experiment station, UDC’s food hubs, and partner locations in the metro area. The Graduate Assistant will partner with other universities, government agencies, and NGOs and will contribute to community outreach. The Graduate Assistant will be expected to conduct research 20 hours per week during fall and spring semesters and 30-40 hours per week during summer, which carries a stipend of approximately $18,300 for 12-months and a reduction or complete payment of tuition. Primary qualifications • Undergraduate degree in agriculture, horticulture, entomology, plant pathology, biological sciences, ecology, or closely related field. Or, demonstrated work experience in these fields • Good organizational skills, attention to detail, and a self-driven curiosity • Proven ability to conduct independent research and/or maintain agricultural systems • Excellent communication skills and the ability to convene and organize research groups, work as part of a scientific team, and relay information to the general public • Strong quantitative skills and a basic understanding of biostatistics are preferred • Knowledge and/or experience growing sweet potatoes and hot peppers is preferred • Physical ability to work outdoors in a variety of conditions • A valid driver’s license is required and personal transportation is essential Application Applicants apply for the Graduate Assistantship through the PI and then the selected student will apply for the PSM Program through UDC. Applicants should email the PI: 1) a letter of interest detailing their qualifications for the position (two-page maximum); 2) a curriculum vitae; 3) unofficial transcripts; and 4) three professional references with contact information (institution, email address, phone number). Application deadline: Open until filled. Priority deadline is October 8th. Starting date: Spring semester 2019. The start date is not flexible. Duration: One year, renewable for a second year if expectations are met Contact: To apply for the Graduate Assistantship or for questions, please contact Dr. Matthew Richardson: matthew.richard...@udc.edu; Ph 202-274-5947.