Part-Time Research Assistant

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Department:

College of Arts & Sciences

Time Type:

Part time

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

Work Modality:

Union:

Excluded

Job Description:

Summary:

The Research Assistant will work with a team of students, professors, and national parks (NPS) staff to compile data on the distribution of aquatic arthropods in national parklands. The RA will perform tasks such as identifying seeps within NPS border, record coordinates with handheld GPS or Field Maps (ESRI); log water chemistry measurements with YSI meter; and collecting and identifying aquatic amphipods and isopods to genus level using microscopes.

Essential Functions:

1.) NPS Research Methods

• The research assistant will perform research using NSP research methods, including recording coordinates with handheld GPS and ESRI, logging water chemistry measurements with YSI tools, qualitative and quantitative analysis of data samples, and physical collection of samples within NPS borders, and all other applicable research methods.

2.) Identifying Aquatic Arthropods and Seepages

• The research assistant will identify appropriate aquatic arthropods and seepages and categorize them by their genus level using microscopy tools.

• They will then log their findings within Excel and/or other data logging software and analyze their findings.

3. Administrating and Delegating Tasks

• The research assistant will help to lead student research out in the field, and coordinate any findings between their groups, the professor, and any NPS staff.

• In addition, on field work days, the RA will lead student workers as necessary to walk 1-3 miles through national parklands, clear paths as needed using hand tools, and identify and navigate field sites.

4.) Lab and field tools such as ESRI

• The research assistant will be proficient in and use physical data collection tool (such as shovels, YSI tools, Microscopes, etc.), geographic tools (such as GPS and ESRI) and data collection and visualization software (such as Excel).

Supervisory Responsibility:

• Oversee a team of 2-5 students.

Competencies:

• Acquiring and Analyzing Information.

• Leading and Inspiring People.

• Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions.

• Supporting Coworkers.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

• Part-Time.

• Temporary.

• 10 hours per week.

• Continuation of the program/position is contingent upon external funding.

• Expected hire to be March, 2025 – March, 2026.

Salary Range:

• $20 per hour.

Required