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This job is a great opportunity for people who like lab work and snow! Physical Science Technician, USDA Forest Service, Houghton, Michigan The incumbent will provide technical support for the research unit with an emphasis in the area of laboratory preparation and isotopic analysis of plant and soil samples. Support will include assistance with both laboratory and field studies addressing carbon cycling in forest ecosystems, and general lab support. Applicants should have laboratory experience and knowledge. They should be capable of carrying out, with minimal training, common laboratory tasks: preparing chemical reagents and standards; working with pressurized gasses; drying, weighing, and grinding samples; properly recording activities, observations, and measured values; following appropriate lab safety and hygiene protocols. Responsibilities will include density fractionation of soils, combustion of organic carbon and subsequent reduction to graphite, maintenance of a graphite vacuum line and supporting instruments, general lab maintenance and cleanliness, management and organization of sample and supplies databases, interaction with laboratory visitors. Knowledge of general isotopic concepts and experience with isotopic techniques is preferred, especially in regards to natural abundance radiocarbon. Opportunities for data analysis will include calculation of process efficiency and mass balance, and tracking standard and background quality. This is primarily a laboratory position, although some opportunities for field work will exist. The successful candidate will have strong organizational and communication skills, have the ability to take direction, have the ability to adapt procedures as dictated by sample and data quality, work as part of a team, have the capability to work with minimal supervision, and have excellent interpersonal skills. Experience with any or all of the above is desirable. The USFS Forestry Sciences Laboratory (FSL) is located on the campus of Michigan Technological University, and collaborates closely with faculty in the MTU School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science. We are located in Houghton, Michigan, on the scenic Keweenaw Peninsula. Proximity to beautiful Lake Superior and extensive forests, lakes and rivers provides opportunities for a range of recreational activities, including hiking, canoeing and kayaking, fishing and cross-country skiing. Houghton has been ranked as one of the 100 best places to live, and the cost of living is quite reasonable in the Houghton area. Please contact Chris Swanston with questions: [EMAIL PROTECTED] --NOTE: on leave from July 17 to July 23 --- ************************************************************ Christopher Swanston Research Ecologist Northern Research Station, USDA Forest Service 410 MacInnes Drive, Houghton, MI 49931 Phone: (906) 482-6303 x20, Fax: -6355 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ************************************************************
