Date: July 6, 2009 Position Title: Research Assistant I/II, Arctic Tundra Ecosystems Position Summary: The Ecosystems Center is seeking a Research Assistant I or II to participate in a research project on CO2 exchange and vegetation canopy structure of arctic tundra ecosystems. Additional Information: In the field, the principal tasks of the assistant will be to participate in measurements of whole-system CO2 exchange using an infrared gas analyzer system, to measure canopy reflectance using a scanning spectroradiometer, and to make ancillary measurements of soil and canopy microclimate, leaf area, and biomass. In the laboratory, the assistant will participate in data analysis and comparison, in drying and weighing plant and soil samples, and in chemical analysis of plant tissues and soils. Experience with any or all of these techniques is desired.
Candidates must be able to spend most or all of the summer months in a field camp, Toolik Field Station, in northern Alaska. During the fall, winter, and spring months the assistant will work at the Ecosystems Center in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Travel to field research sites and room and board while doing field research are paid for by the grant, in addition to a salary. This is a full-time, year-round position, with an initial appointment for 12 months. The position may be filled any time between October 2009 and May, 2010. Basic Qualifications: Applicants should be college graduates with BS or MS degrees, with significant course work and/or field experience in ecology. Familiarity with spreadsheets and data analysis and with instrumentation such as infrared gas analysis, spectroradiometers, and/or CHN analyzers is desired. Physical Requirements In addition to scientific experience and/or education, candidates must be capable of vigorous activity in the field, often in foul weather. Applicants should be in good health and prepared to live in a field camp where cooperation with others is essential, personal privacy is limited, and living accommodations are modest. Required Applicant Documents: Resume/CV Cover Letter Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial transcripts are required, but may be uploaded with your application materials or faxed to the Human Resources Office, 508-289-7931. If faxing, please reference this posting.
