School of Natural Resources

We are excited to announce an opening for a Research Specialist II to join our team. You will play a pivotal role in overseeing laboratory operations, conducting research, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, and engaging with volunteers through the Lakes of Missouri Volunteer Program. Your contributions will directly impact our ongoing efforts to advance the understanding and preservation of our water resources.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform water chemistry analysis and other laboratory procedures to assess the health of aquatic ecosystems.
• Conduct field research, including sample collection and data collection in diverse environmental conditions.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to undergraduate students involved in research projects.
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance and inventory management.
• Collaborate with research team members to design and execute experiments and analyze data.
• Contribute to the development and publication of research findings in scientific journals.

Monday - Friday

8:30am - 5pm, occasional travel with overnight stays required

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Graduate degree in aquatic ecology.

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, ecology, or a related field.
• Valid driver’s license
• Experience with software such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, and R.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to multi-task.
• Proven experience in water chemical analysis and laboratory techniques.
• Strong mentoring and leadership skills, with a demonstrated ability to guide undergraduate students.
• Experience conducting field research in aquatic environments.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $20.67-$22.60/hourly.
Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual’s particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Grade: GSS 008
University Title: Research Specialist Il
To review the University of Missouri’s Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

MU application

Cover letter

CV

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged. We look forward to welcoming a talented and dedicated individual to our team!

About Us:

Welcome to the MU Aquatic Ecology Lab at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Our research focuses on understanding the influence of human activities on aquatic ecosystems and finding solutions to mitigate these effects. Our mission is to train a new generation of water resources professional equipped with scientific knowledge and the ability to work across disciplines to ensure the preservation of our aquatic ecosystems. Located in the vibrant city of Columbia, our lab offers a welcoming and collaborative environment with professional development opportunities and a dynamic pace.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours’ drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County’s largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen cultural festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Values Commitment
We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.
To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.