Position Information
Working Title Ecology Research Assistant (Temporary: Multiple Positions Available)
Department School of Biological Sciences-1076
Requisition Number S_240115
Posting Open Date 02/20/2024
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 02/28/2024
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Description of Work
The labs of Sabrina Russo and Daniel Uden at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln ( https://russolab.unl.edu/ and https://snr.unl.edu/aboutus/who/people/faculty-member.aspx?pid=1373 ) and Tom Bragg at the University of Nebraska - Omaha ( https://www.unomaha.edu/college-of-arts-and-sciences/biology/about-us/directory/thomas-bragg.php ) seek a team of seasonal field technicians to participate in a large-scale forest ecology project involving three components in Indian Cave State Park, Nebraska: (1) a re-census of a large temperate forest inventory plot (Indian Cave plot), (2) censusing many small forest survey plots, (3) installing and censusing seedling plots. The goal of the project is to understand patterns of biodiversity and change in Nebraska's forests in response to climate change and forest management by quantifying spatial variation in forest community structure, tree growth and survival, and the responses of seedlings to prescribed fire. This project will recensus the Indian Cave forest inventory plot ( https://forestgeo.si.edu/sites/north-america/indian-cave ) that is part of the Smithsonian Forest Global Earth Observatory (ForestGEO) global network of scientists and forest research sites dedicated to advancing long-term study of the world's forests ( https://www.forestgeo.si.edu ). Field research assistants will develop skills and gain experience in: (1) field methods for censuses of forest inventory plots, including tree identification, tree mapping using survey equipment, and measurements of tree growth, mortality, and condition variables; (2) field methods for sampling tree seedlings; (3) forest conservation and management, (4) management of large data sets; (5) team-based ecological field research. There may also be opportunities to participate in drone and aircraft-based remote sensing data collection and to gain spatial analysis skills in Geographic Information Systems ( GIS ). This region is ecologically and biogeographically important, with hiking opportunities on forested bluffs along the Missouri River and opportunities for fishing and other recreational activities.
The positions are full-time (40 hours/week), hourly ($15/hour) temporary positions (up to 6 months) with no benefits. Candidates interested in shorter positions (minimum of 3 months) are also encouraged to apply. The positions are available starting between April 1 and June 1, 2024, and last minimally until the second week of August 2024 or until the work is completed. There can be some flexibility with start and end dates. Housing (in a group, dorm-style setting) and a field vehicle will be provided.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and diverse workforce in which employees' differences are respected and valued to better meet the varying needs of the diverse populations we serve. The university fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment that promotes collaboration so that all individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential. As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination .

Minimum Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or degree in progress with an interest in ecology or related fields (e.g. biology, forestry, wildlife conservation); a valid driver's license and driving record consistent with UNL's Fleet Management requirements; ability to work and hike outdoors under a range of conditions that include steep terrain and hot or cold or other uncomfortable weather, biting insects, poison ivy, and wild animals; enthusiasm to learn new concepts and field skills, to work productively in a collaborative team, and to improve conservation and management of Great Plains forests.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Microsoft Excel; experience conducting field or independent research; experience with plant identification, especially in North American temperate forests; experience working in a field team; experience with data management, GIS , or R.

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required No
Physical Required No
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances. No
Criminal History Background Check Required Yes
Posted Salary $15.00/hr
How to Apply
Click on "Apply for this Job". You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file.
Please submit (1) a 1-page cover letter describing your interest in this position, how the position would advance your career goals, relevant past experience and coursework, start date availability, and contact information for three references including e-mail addresses and phone numbers; and (2) a CV or resume.
In addition to online submission, candidates should also e-mail Dr. Sabrina Russo (srusso2@unl.edu) to indicate interest in the position as soon as possible using the subject line "Ecology Research Assistant Positions." Questions can be directed to Dr. Sabrina Russo.

For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Please email Dr. Sabrina Russo srusso2@unl.edu

Job Category (old) Office/Service
Job Type Full-Time Temporary
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? Yes
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date: 4/1/24
Appointment End Date 8/16/24
Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Required Documents
Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter

Optional Documents