1 Research Associate, Soil-Plastic Interactions Job in San Luis Obispo, CA

SORT BY

SET JOB ALERT

OFF

Details...

Research Associate, Soil-Plastic Interactions

Cal Poly Corporation

San Luis Obispo, CA | Full Time

$80k-100k (estimate)

2 Weeks Ago

Research Associate, Soil-Plastic Interactions

Cal Poly Corporation San Luis Obispo, CA

$80k-100k (estimate)

Full Time 2 Weeks Ago

Save

Cal Poly Corporation is Hiring a Research Associate, Soil-Plastic Interactions Near San Luis Obispo, CA

Position Information

Job Title

Research Associate, Soil-Plastic Interactions

Posting Number

201000733

Posting Type

Temporary

Contract End Date

06/30/2025

Salary Range

Hiring Range

$25.53 - $28.85 per hour

Full Time or Part Time

Full Time

If Part Time, List Work Hours

Position Summary Information

Job Description Summary

The Sistla Lab at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo is seeking a research associate to contribute to a project studying the patterns and implications of plastics in agricultural systems, with a focus on plastic mulch-soil interactions. This is a full time, one-year appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, and continuing availability of funds in the Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department (NRES) within the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California.

The research associate will work within an externally supported research program that is using a multi-disciplinary approach to characterize changes in the intensity, extent, and socio-environmental implications of agricultural plastics use, plastic debris soil to water transfer, and agroecological responses to biodegradable and conventional plastic mulches accumulating in agricultural soils. Complementing field, laboratory, or data-driven research within these areas, the research associate will manage lab day-to-day activities and mentor undergraduate and graduate students in related research.

Minimum Qualifications

MS in terrestrial ecology, earth sciences, agroecology, or related field.
Strong data management and analysis skills, including: bioinformatics, biogeochemical, and/or spatial data, demonstrated experience with coding in R
Ability to work independently in lab biogeochemistry analyses (e.g., nutrient pools, microbial biomass and respiration, microbial community structure and function)
Demonstrated ability to work in teams and independently.
Desire to mentor undergraduate and graduate students
The person holding this position is considered a ‘mandated reporter’ under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment
A background check is required for all regular, benefited positions

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with CA agricultural systems
Familiarity with ecosystem ecology, terrestrial biogeochemisry
Demonstrated ability to work in teams and independently
Possession of a valid California Driver’s License and satisfactory driving record
Strong interpersonal skills
Experience working with people of different backgrounds, philosophies, and objectives

Physical Demands

Hearing and speaking to exchange information in person or on the telephone
Dexterity of hands, fingers, and wrist to operate a computer keyboard and calculator
Seeing to read a variety of materials
Sitting or standing for extended periods of time

Typical Essential Functions

Organize and lead data analysis, lab and field work
Complete relevant literature synthesis
Perform statistical analyses of complex data sets (preferably in R or Python)
Collaborate on peer-reviewed publications that result from this research
Manage the lab status and train new personnel on standard techniques
Mentor students on the project
Perform other duties assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities

Directly supervise assigned employees, including graduate and undergraduate students in the field and laboratory
Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with Corporation’s policies and applicable laws and regulations
Direct and monitor employees to ensure that they remain in compliance with policies and procedures

Special Instructions to Applicants

Cal Poly Partners provides excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, paid sick leave/vacation and 14 holidays.
Employees are eligible to participate in the CP Partners Medical Insurance Plan offered through the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS). Employees have different plans from which to choose including HMOs and PPOs. The coverage includes the employee, his/her dependents, or domestic partner. CP Partners covers a large portion of the medical premium for the employee and eligible dependents.
All employees are members of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) and will contribute to their retirement; these contributions can be refunded if the employee terminates prior to retirement.
Please visit our website for additional benefits information.
https://www.calpolycorporation.org/resources/business-services/human-resources/benefits/
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check, educational and employment verification, and reference check, as required.
The California State University system (CSU) requires that students, faculty, and any employees of organizations who access campus, or any CSU facilities, to be either fully vaccinated or qualify for a medical or religious exemption. Please note if you are chosen for a position with the Cal Poly Partners you will be asked to fill out a Vaccine Attestation once you are hired. This attestation will ask if you are vaccinated or asking for a medical or religious exemption.

Posting Detail Information

Open Date

06/05/2024

Close Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

Review of Applications Begin Date