Caroline Stromberg at the University of Washington (Seattle campus) is currently seeking a research assistant.
You can apply at: http://www.washington.edu/admin/hr/jobs/apl/index.html Req #: 62069 Our Biology Department has an outstanding opportunity for an ASSISTANT RESEARCH SCIENTIST in paleobotany/paleoecology. Under supervision of the PI, the Assistant will extract fossil plant silica (phytoliths) from Cenozoic sediment samples from Eurasia and the Americas in order to study vegetation changes associated with the spread of grass-dominated habitats during the Oligocene-Miocene. In addition, the Assistant will extract phytoliths from modern plants to create a reference collection of phytoliths that will aid in identification of fossil phytoliths. There may also be the opportunity to design and execute smaller, independent research projects. Duties will include extraction of phytoliths, which involves chemical and mechanical processing of sediment, heavy liquid treatment, and slide preparation. Duties also consist of maintenance of wet and sedimentology lab, including ordering supplies, and construction of a research database of modern and fossil phytoliths. Additionally, this position would also be in charge of supervising undergraduate volunteers in the lab. Requirements: • BS degree in life science or geology. • Familiarity with experimental design and trouble-shooting • Excellent organization and the ability to communicate effectively. • Familiarity with spreadsheet and word-processing programs such as Excel and Word. Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration. Desired: • Experience with microscopy techniques. • Familiarity with image capture and processing programs such as ImageJ, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator. • Familiarity with GIS and database programs such as Access. • Familiarity with statistical programs such as R or Systat Salary and benefits are competitive. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. As a UW employee, you will enjoy generous benefits and work/life programs.
