Temporary Researcher
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Job Summary
The research assistant will join a team of scientists working on different aspects of an ongoing climate change experiment at Niwot Ridge LTER: the Turf Transplant Experiment. The research assistant will join the sub-group focused on biogeochemical responses to warming. They will be responsible for collecting soil, water, and trace gas samples, processing existing samples in the laboratory, and running analytical equipment for chemical analysis. In addition, they will pilot field sampling approaches and design a sampling scheme for the following field season (Summer 2026). The research assistant may be asked to help with other aspects of the Turf Transplant Experiment, as well as ongoing, related studies at Niwot LTER.
Who We Are
As the University's oldest institute, INSTAAR has a long history of responding to pressing environmental issues including climate change. Our traditional focus has been on alpine, Arctic, and Antarctic regions, where effects of global change are especially pronounced. In recent decades, our research has broadened to include environmental challenges that span local, regional, and global scales. INSTAAR’s research activities integrate field studies, state-of-the-art laboratory experiments, sample analysis, and numerical and laboratory modeling. Our field sites are located across all seven continents and the world's oceans.
Our expertise across disciplines helps us generate influential science that can inform public and policy decisions and move us toward a more sustainable society. INSTAAR's national and international research leadership is augmented by exceptional strength in graduate education and bringing undergraduates into the research process.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
- Field sampling of soils, waters, and trace gases; QA/QC and curation of field and laboratory data consistent with Niwot LTER protocols.
- Laboratory processing of samples.
- Running analytical equipment (e.g., Lachat AutoAnalyzer, Ion Chromatograph, Gas Chromatograph).
What We Can Offer
$40/hour - $43/hour.
Benefits
Be Statements
What We Require
- A BA or BS in ecology, biology, environmental science, or related studies.
- One year or more of experience working on independent or collaborative research science.
What You Will Need
- Ability to conduct field work at elevation in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, including carrying packs with equipment; knowledge of field and laboratory safety measures; familiarity with methods in ecosystem biogeochemistry in the field and laboratory; strong written and oral communication skills; willingness to learn new skills.
What We Would Like You to Have
- Knowledge of how to troubleshoot and operate laboratory analytical equipment (e.g., Lachat AutoAnalyzer, Ion Chromatograph, Gas Chromatograph, Plate Reader); familiarity with statistical approaches and/or coding languages (e.g., R programming); interest in analyzing and interpreting data.
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
- Resume/CV.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.
Posting Contact Information
Posting Contact Name: Boulder Campus Human Resources
Posting Contact Email: Recruiting@colorado.edu