What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant – Invasive Plant Treatment (Student Services Contractor) position at U.S. Geological Survey - Great Lakes Science...?
Project: Developing new, sustainable control strategies for an invasive wetland grass (Phragmites australis)
Position Description: The student contractor will serve as a Research Assistant supporting the ongoing development and advancement of new control strategies for non-native Phragmites and other invasive wetland plants. The contractor will be based at the USGS Great Lakes Science Center in Ann Arbor, MI and play a critical support role for USGS research by assisting with a variety of duties that include, but are not limited to:
- Assist with field, greenhouse, and laboratory studies exploring the impact of soil and foliar enhancements on microbial communities and Phragmites growth and performance
- Assist with greenhouse operations to support the needs of ongoing Phragmites control studies and other invasive wetland plant research
- Support testing of treatments that target microbial symbioses interactions and/or genetic pathways to decrease Phragmites invasion success
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team spanning genetics, microbiology, and ecology
- Assist in creating, updating, and refining various scientific reports and publications
Education/Experience Requirements: The successful candidate must be currently enrolled as a student or must have received a degree within one year prior to beginning the contract. The ideal candidate will have:
- A Bachelor’s degree competed or in progress in biology, ecology, or a related field
- A valid U.S. driver’s license
- Field
- Experience working with non-native Phragmites or other invasive plant species is preferred
- Laboratory experience is preferred
- Strong communication (verbal and written) skills
- Great attention to detail and desire to learn
- High motivation and must feel comfortable working both as a member of a team and independently
Other Details: This contract covers a 5-month period with an anticipated start date of May 5th, 2025. The student contractor cannot receive holiday pay, annual leave, or health care benefits, nor can they receive overtime pay for hours worked in excess of 80 within a two-week period. However, hours in excess of the established 80 per two weeks will be paid at the regular hourly rate. The student will report to the Great Lakes Science Center in Ann Arbor, MI, for all duties, unless otherwise specified. Office work will occur in an office equipped with a computer workstation. Moving expenses will not be paid. Lodging will only be provided when in travel status.
The successful candidate will be hired as an independent contractor. This is not a government position, and time does not count toward time-in-service.
March 14th, 2025. To ensure consideration of your application, please send a cover letter, resume or CV, and a list of three professional references to Spenser Widin, swidin@usgs.gov
Job Types: Full-time, Temporary, Contract
Pay: $20.51 - $28.42 per hour
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
Salary : $21 - $28