Position Website and Application Information
PRIMARY POSITION FUNCTION/SUMMARY: Support the ongoing research efforts of the CABBI (Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation) Sustainability Theme by focusing on carbon and nitrogen biogeochemistry.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Collecting plant, soil, gas, and water samples from field sites
- Processing and analyzing plant, soil, gas, and water samples in the laboratory
- Assisting with stable isotope tracer experiments and laboratory assays for carbon and nitrogen cycling processes
- Supervising undergraduate students assisting with this project, including training, assigning work, and tracking work performance and deliverables
- Organizing and compiling datasets
- Research sites are located in Central Illinois, so this position will require frequent short travel for field sampling campaigns.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education: Required: A bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, chemistry, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on depth and breadth of experience and skills as related to this position.
Experience: Required: Research experience in the laboratory and in the field related to biogeochemistry (e.g., above and belowground plant sampling, trace gas flux measurements, soil sampling, wet chemistry, gas chromatography). Experience may include time in student status if relevant. Preferred: Experience running analytical instrumentation for soil, water and gas samples (i.e., SmartChem discrete autoanalyzer, gas chromatograph, isotope ratio mass spectrometer). Experience with laboratory assays for soil carbon and nitrogen cycling processes.
Training, Licenses or Certifications: Required: US driver’s license
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: A valid driver's license and ability to travel regularly to research sites in Central Illinois for sampling campaigns. Ability to work long days in the field under hot and humid conditions. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds for short durations. Strong organizational skills. Basic computer skills (MS Word, Excel). Ability to work in a large collaborative team environment.
SALARY: $38,000 to $40,000 per year commensurate with skills and experience.
APPOINTMENT STATUS: Full-time academic professional, grant-supported appointment renewable annually pending continued funding and satisfactory progress within the position. Qualified individuals will be eligible to receive vacation, sick, and personal leave; retirement through the State Universities Retirement System; and group health, dental, vision and life insurance.
START DATE: As soon as possible after the close date