Job Title: Lab manager / lead research technician
Job Type: Full-time (40 hours/week)
Organization: Michigan State University, Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences
Location: MSU Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences (East Lansing, MI)
Vacancies: 1
Desired start: Spring 2022 (May preferred). Funding for up to three years is available.
Hourly salary: Commensurate with experience
Job Description: The Miesel Fire and Ecosystem Ecology lab (https://www.mieselecologylab.org/) in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University seeks one full-timelaboratory manager / lead research technician. Research in our group focuses on understanding (1) how fire and forest management influence soil, vegetation, and ecosystem processes; (2) how pyrogenic carbon and biochar affects soil carbon and nutrients; and (3) soil spectroscopy for improving soil and plant sample analysis. This position will be responsible for assisting with overall laboratory management, maintaining experiments, and coordinating and conducting laboratory analysis of soil and plant samples. Responsibilities will be primarily lab-based with occasional work in the field, greenhouse, and/or other experimental facilities. A major part of the responsibilities will focus on assisting with coordinating project logistics, measurements and data management for a new study investigating soil responses to wildfires. This position will interact with and support graduate students and provide training and oversight for undergraduate student assistants. Additional responsibilities may include contributing to data summaries, project reports, and literature reviews. Opportunity to participate in manuscript development and/or field measurements and monitoring in wildland fire study sites may be available for interested candidates.
Skills and Experience: We seek enthusiastic applicants with a strong background in ecology, biogeochemistry, soil science, environmental science, plant biology, or related discipline. Recent MSc graduates and/or BSc graduates with additional relevant experience are encouraged to apply. Priority will be given to applicants with previous experience performing soil and plant sample analyses and measurements of soil processes but training will be provided for new methods. The successful applicant will be self-motivated, highly organized, able to work well independently and as part of a team, and have excellent communication skills. A valid US driver’s license is required. Compensation is commensurate with experience
To apply: Apply online at https://jobs.msu.edu to position number 768860. Application review will begin April 15 and will continue until the position is filled. The position is available beginning Spring 2022 (May start dates preferred). A complete application includes: (1) a cover letter that includes a statement of interest in the position, a summary of your past research experiences including specific field measurements and/or laboratory procedures you have experience with, and how this position would contribute to your career goals; (2) a resume or CV including a list of relevant coursework; and (3) names and contact information for three professional references. All questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Jessica Miesel at mieselje@msu.edu. Incomplete applications will not be accepted
