Research Associate Division of Biological Sciences

Profile

The

Division of Biological Sciences (DBS)

invites applications for a

Research Associate

in the Division of Biological Sciences under the supervision of Dr. Anna Sala. We are seeking an energetic and motivated person to work on a field research project on mycorrhizal networks and forest ecophysiology in Western Montana. The project, funded by the Department of Energy, seeks to understand the role of stress and mycorrhizal networks in modulating ponderosa pine responses to drought. This is a full time position for a minimum of 12 months that includes benefits. The successful candidate will start as early as possible in 2022, but not later than February 15

th

, 2022. They will help coordinate the project, conduct field work, and process samples in the lab. Ideally, the candidate will also engage in data analyses and publication. Field work will start in March-April 2022 and will continue through the spring and summer 2022. The project will involve ecophysiological measurements in trees in the field, as well as sample processing in the lab.

We envision this position as an ideal springboard for candidates interested in gaining in-depth research experience prior to a longer term commitment to research. This position will coordinate with project principal investigators to schedule and conduct field measurements and will functionally supervise undergraduate student assistants. We are flexible in how to structure the position with potential to transition to graduate school.

Upon completion of training, the incumbent will have the ability to operate field and laboratory equipment and conduct tree physiological measurements.

The University of Montana is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and has a strong institutional commitment to the principle of diversity in all areas. In that spirit, we are particularly interested in receiving applications from a broad spectrum of qualified people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action

: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

Position Details

Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package

including Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.

Salary for this position is $35,000 per year commensurate with qualifications.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field

Independent research experience

Demonstrated ability to work independently

Ability conduct physically demanding field work

Coordination, management and people skills

Preferred Qualifications

MS degree in Biology or related field

Familiarity with coniferous forest biology

Experience in tree ecophysiology techniques

Experience is soil and fungal biology

Experience in data management and organization

Strong writing skills

Quantitative/analytical skills

About

UM

and the

Division of Biological Sciences

The University of Montana is flagship, research institution with more than 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students. It is located in Missoula, a culturally vibrant community of about 75,000, surrounded by mountains and three rivers converge. Abundant recreational opportunities in surrounding state and national forests and nearby Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park complement a thriving intellectual atmosphere.

The Division of Biological Sciences at The University of Montana-Missoula delivers high-quality academic programs in the biological sciences. The division’s mission includes educating students at all levels from the baccalaureate to the doctoral, so that they develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to succeed as professional biologists and as citizens in a rapidly changing world facing problems that include significant biological components; to foster strong research programs that create new knowledge, understanding, and approaches in biology and that enhance the learning environment for students; and to apply biological science to benefit the university, state, region, nation and the world.

To learn more about the University of Montana, please visit the links below.

University of Montana

Video: Mission First, People Always

UM on YouTube

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to Offer of Employment.

In accordance with University policy, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.

ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference.

Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, we encourage applications from minorities, veterans, and women. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.

References

*References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant.

Testing

Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.

E mployment Eligibility.

All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).

Company info

The University of Montana
Website : https://www.umt.edu