Position: Lab Manager for a forest ecology research lab Location: Ames, Iowa with travel to the Mariana Islands
Overview: We are seeking a lab manager to support and coordinate research in the lab of Dr. Haldre Rogers in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology at Iowa State University. Our research combines comparative studies with manipulative experiments to understand the role of vertebrates in terrestrial systems and to develop effective conservation strategies in today's changing world. Much of our research is conducted on the Mariana Islands, where due to the introduction of the brown tree snake, Guam's forests are now functionally without birds. See http://haldre.com and http://www.ecologyofbirdloss.org for more details on the research projects conducted in the Rogers lab. Job description: The lab manager will assist and support ecological field research efforts in a variety of ways. This will include managing field data; managing the activities of undergraduate researchers in Iowa; keeping track of field equipment; identifying and ordering items for the research lab; and general lab maintenance. This position will also manage the logistical needs associated with maintaining a field crew in the Mariana Islands. This will include paying bills, coordinating permits, facilitating repairs to field houses and cars, making travel arrangements, assisting with hiring new staff, and compiling information for and completing the monthly, quarterly, and annual reports to the funding agency. This position may require travel to the Mariana Islands to provide logistical support for field research, which would be a max of two trips per year, potentially including one 4-6 week long trip. Exact dates and durations to be determined. The position will involve a small amount of field research and maintenance of existing experiments in Iowa and potentially in the Marianas, but please note that research will be a very minor component of the position. Qualifications: We are seeking an exceptionally motivated individual with demonstrated project management, people management, and data management experience (Excel and R), a background in field ecology (specifically plant or community ecology), and excellent organizational skills. The research project in the Mariana Islands is logistically complicated, and thus ideal candidates must be able to creatively solve problems, deal with unforeseen challenges, and possess an almost obsessive drive to organize things (if you love categorizing, labeling, and making spreadsheets and lists, this job is for you!). Additional requirements include excellent communication skills and cultural sensitivity. Experience working outside of the continental US is desired. A bachelor’s degree in ecology or a related field is required. A sense of humor is appreciated. All applicants must be eligible to work in the US without requiring an employee-sponsored visa. Payment and benefits: The salary may range from $30,000 to 34,000 per year, depending on experience. This is a 12-month position, with potential for extension. The position is eligible for health and welfare benefit plans (medical and dental insurance, life insurance, etc.) and retirement plans. Application procedure: To apply for this position, go to https://www.iastatejobs.com/postings/28571 click on “Apply to this job” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following: • Resume/Curriculum Vitae • Letter of Application/Cover Letter • Contact Information for Three References The cover letter should describe your previous research experience with a focus on your experience in plant ecology, your previous project management experience, and your career goals and how this position fits into those goals. Applications should be submitted by September 14, 2017 for full consideration, although applications may be considered after the deadline. For more information: Contact Dr. Haldre Rogers at [email protected].
