Temporary Research Assistant - Department of Biology

The Department of Biology in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Temporary Research Assistant.

About the Opportunity

The Brzostek Lab at West Virginia University (WVU) in the Biology Department seeking applications for an Ecosystem Modelling Research Associate to develop and refine ecosystem models that predict the sustainability of bioenergy crop production. Applicants experienced with plant microbe interactions, coding, soil biogeochemistry, and/or ecosystem modeling are particularly encouraged to apply.

What You'll Do

• Develop new model algorithms in an ecosystem model to improve predictions of bioenergy crop production.
• Assist with lab and field work to generate data to parameterize and validate ecosystem models.
• Communicate research results by writing scientific manuscripts and presenting at conferences.
• Provide mentorship and training to graduate and undergraduate students.

Pay Grade: 20

Length of Appointment: Approximately 6 Months

• PhD, or successful defense of a PhD dissertation in plant and soil sciences, biology, microbiology, environmental sciences, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience including time spent in graduate school involving:
  
  
  
  • Laboratory and field experience related to soil biogeochemistry and plant microbe interactions.
  • Proficiency in coding in R or similar languages.
  
  
  
  
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to code in coding languages including R and Python.
• Demonstrated knowledge of ecosystem ecology, soil biogeochemistry, and plant-microbial interactions.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, write effectively, and present results of scientific studies.
• Demonstrated ability to perform lab and field work to measure biogeochemical cycles.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as scientific literature, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer utilizing Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Power Point) and other software applications for reports, graphs, mailings and presentation development.
• Demonstrated ability in scientific writing and presentation of research results.
• Thorough knowledge of proper English, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence structure.
• Ability to speak effectively before groups of employees of the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to perform statistical analysis.
• Excellent organizational skills and a thorough knowledge of general office methods, procedures, and practices.
• Ability to set, coordinate, and plan schedules, work independently, and collect, organize, and analyze information. Must have the ability to independently set priorities in a logical and efficient manner.
• Ability to coordinate different tasks, determine relative importance of each, set deadlines, and complete projects in a timely manner and within set guidelines.

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and engaging working environment and actively seek candidates who bring diverse ideas, approaches and experiences.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and received an NSF ADVANCE award for gender equity. We value diversity among our faculty, staff and students and invite applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, nationality, genetics, disability, or Veteran status.