Temporary Field Research Assistant

We seek a highly motivated Research Assistant to work under the supervision of Dr. Patrick Bohlen at the MacArthur Agro-ecology Research Center (MAERC).

MacArthur Agro-ecology Research Center (MAERC) at Buck Island Ranch, is a Division of Archbold Biological Station and is located at a 10,500-acre commercial cattle ranch, on lease from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.  MAERC is dedicated to long-term research that contributes to a better understanding and broader awareness of the ecological, economic, and cultural value of grazing lands and Florida’s cattle ranches.  
Research projects at MAERC focus on wetland ecology and restoration, and the RA’s primary duties will be to assist with a USDA-funded proposal investigating the synergistic effects of fire and grazing on small, seasonal freshwater marshes.    
The Research Assistant III will be expected to:

• Collect and process soil, plant and water samples.
• Help maintain field sites.
• Organize field and laboratory operations.
• Help process soil and plant samples in the laboratory.
• Assist with data entry and analysis.
• Assist with other projects and tasks as needed.

The successful candidate should:

• Have a B.S or M.S. (preferred) in ecology, environment science or related field.
• Have lab and field experience relevant to the position.
• Have experience working with spreadsheets and managing data.
• Have experience with data analysis.
• Be highly motivated with a strong work ethic.
• Be able to work independently and with others in team situations.
• Be capable of strenuous fieldwork under hot, humid subtropical conditions. 
• Be willing to live in a remove rural location.

Applicants should have experience in field ecology.  Experience in wetland ecology a plus, especially water sampling and analysis, or experience with wetland plant, vertebrate or invertebrate communities.
This is a temporary, full-time position.  Housing will be available to rent on site.
Applicants should send 1) a letter of application, 2) a resume or CV with GPA, and 3) names, phone numbers and e-mail addresses for three references to:  Dr. Patrick Bohlen at pbohlen@archbold-station.org, or MacArthur Agro-ecology Research Center, 300 Buck Island Ranch Rd., Lake Placid, FL, 33852.  The application deadline is April 25, 2008.  The position could start anytime after mid-May, 2008 and will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.  Contact Dr. Bohlen at (863) 699-0242 or (863) 414-5145 (cell).  Please visit our website www.maerc.org for further information. 

Archbold is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women and minorities.