Research Assistant position in the Coastal and Wetlands Ecology Lab at TAMUG

The Coastal and Wetlands Ecology team at Texas A&M University at Galveston invites applications for a Research Assistant to assist with projects that evaluate the influence of habitat restoration and climate change on coastal wetlands and mangroves. The work performed will help identify ecologically successful marsh restoration techniques, and will compare ecosystem functions between salt marsh and mangrove habitats.

Job description:

The Research Assistant will assist with a two-year project that involves sampling plant and animal communities in restored and natural marshes on the Texas coast. Field work will include deployment of nets and sampling devices from small watercraft, airboats, and pirogues, collecting infauna, plant, and soil samples, and deployment and maintenance of experiments. Laboratory tasks will include sorting and identifying infauna, as well as sorting, grinding, reducing, and analyzing plant, soil, water, and animal samples with a variety of laboratory equipment. Tasks may include soil and water nutrient and pigment analyses. Additional tasks will include performing data entry, reading and recording results in accordance with standard procedures, graphing data, photographic analyses, associated computer activities, and related duties as required. Occasional duties will include assisting with field work in other coastal habitats, including mangroves, on the Texas coast.

The Research Assistant must have the ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

This position may require standing for long periods of time, walking long distances, lifting up to 50 lbs, squatting, kneeling, and bending. Outdoor activities may take place in muddy, hot conditions.

Required education and experience:

BS or higher in biology or related field. A valid driver’s license is required.

Preferred education and experience:

Relevant college courses in plant and community ecology. Work experience (1+ year) in coastal habitats, familiarity with marsh ecology; experience with standard protocols for infauna, soil, water, and plant analyses.

Position information:

40 hours/week. Some long field days and occasional weekend work may be required.

Salary: $10.84/hour. Benefits eligible.

Start date: As early as 9/1/13. Review of applications will begin on 8/23/13 and will continue until the position is filled.

For questions, contact Dr. Anna Armitage: armitaga at tamug dot edu. To apply, go to https://jobpath.tamu.edu/ and search for Posting # O00045FY13