Student Services Position with USGS in Lafayette, LA

Student Services Position
U.S. Geological Survey National Wetlands Research Center (Lafayette, LA)


The U.S. Geological Survey National Wetlands Research Center (USGS NWRC) seeks a student contractor to work with a team of researchers investigating the ecological implications of climate change and land use change. Specific duties will include, but will not be limited, to: (1) data analysis and the evaluation/application of regional-scale modeling tools; (2) synthesis of literature pertaining to future global change scenarios and the potential vulnerability of priority ecosystems and species; and (3) preparation of written communications that summarize research efforts. The position will likely involve collaboration with federal, state, and non-profit environmental managers and scientists. For general information about the program, please see the project’s fact sheet:
http://www.fws.gov/southeast/LCC/GulfPlains/pdf/DoIGulfCoastPlainLCC.pdf

Level of Education and Knowledge
The student shall have completed a BA or BS degree and at least one year of graduate school. It is important that the student be enrolled or recently enrolled in an intensive degree program (e.g., Biology, Ecology, Geology, Environmental Science, Engineering) with longer-term goals of earning an M.S. or Ph.D. degree. The student shall be familiar with basic computer operations including knowledge of common software applications and database management protocols. The student should also be able to work for long periods of time in the field commensurate with the time project supervisors spend in the field while on travel. Knowledge of ecological research methods as they
pertain to report writing is also preferred.

Working conditions
The official duty station is the USGS National Wetlands Research Center in Lafayette, LA. Most work will be completed indoors within an office; however some laboratory or greenhouse work may also be
necessary. Field work will be uncommon and student-optional, but may involve long hours in forested wetlands, marsh, or coastal barrier islands. Travel, with a duration ranging from day trips to week-long-trips, may be allowed, but is not required.

Estimated number of hours to be performed
40 hours per week for one year

Approximate start date
February 27, 2012

Approximate end date
February 27, 2013

To apply for this position, please send a copy of your resume via email to Mike Osland (email address: oslandm@usgs.gov). Questions regarding the position can also be sent to this email address.  To facilitate the identification of such emails, please include “student
position” in the subject line of your email