JOB: Full-time Research Assistant – Aridland Restoration Ecology

The Newingham Aridland Ecology Lab (http://newinghamlab.weebly.com) is seeking a full-time research assistant to lead data analysis and fieldwork related to aridland ecosystem research. Our lab evaluates the effects of fire, climate change, and invasive species on plant and soil properties, as well as how restoration affects ecosystem recovery. Research projects include fuels management, post-fire rehabilitation, wind and water erosion post-fire, and other treatments to restore native habitat in the Great Basin and Mojave deserts, as well as California annual grasslands. We work closely with universities, state, and federal agencies to address natural resource issues and land management.

 

·      Oversee project management and personnel; coordinate activities with others in the lab and collaborators.

·      Conduct ecological research by contributing to research design, establishing experiments, collecting data, and reporting results.

·      Lead field crews and work in collaboration with graduate students, technicians, and post docs.

·      Data management and analysis; present at scientific conferences; contribute to scientific manuscripts.

·      Assist with hiring technicians, purchasing, and budget management.

·      Conduct field research in remote and primitive areas under strenuous physical and climatological situations. 

·      Interact with scientists, ranchers, and land managers from state and federal agencies, such as the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Nevada Department of Wildlife, University of Nevada Reno, and other universities.

·      Education: BS degree in biology, ecology, natural resources, or closely related field. MS degree is preferred.

·      At least four years of field ecology research experience.

·      Previous experience with soil and plant sampling and sample analysis. Plant identification skills required; experience with soil sampling and micrometeorological equipment preferred.

·      Strong knowledge of field plot establishment, monitoring, and experimental design.

·      Ability to lead field campaigns, including logistics in remote locations.

·      Experience with field and laboratory safety protocol and procedures, including basic analytical chemistry skills; maintaining and troubleshooting equipment.

·      Experience with data management, graphing, and statistical analysis. Ability to use Excel and R to conduct statistical analyses. Preferred knowledge of multivariate statistics.

·      Experience using GPS and GIS (ArcGIS or QGIS) to locate and establish field plots; preferred knowledge on conducting spatial analyses.

·      Ability to contribute to peer-reviewed manuscripts and give presentations at scientific conferences.

·      Willingness and ability to camp and work in varied field conditions possibly for extended periods that may involve: 1) off-road hiking up and down hills, 2) carrying loads up to 30 lbs, and 3) withstanding periods of inclement weather during all seasons.  

·      Possess a valid driver’s license and experience operating 4WD vehicles.

·      Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a group.

·      Supervisory and leadership experience, including leading field crews.

·      Ability to communicate with stakeholders and collaborators.

 

The candidate will work with the USDA Agricultural Research Service and University of Nevada, Reno. The position is based in Reno, NV, with a preferred start date in May 2024. Salary is commensurate with experience and includes health insurance and retirement benefits. Please send a resume, list of four references, unofficial transcript(s), and a letter detailing your skills, experience, and/or interest to Dr. Beth Newingham at beth.newingham@usda.gov. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled with preference before March 31, 2024. Please contact Dr. Newingham with any questions.