LAB TECHNICIAN IN MARINE BIOGEOCHEMISTRY

Seeking a full-time lab technician for 2 years with possible 1-3 year extension. The research in the lab is multi-disciplinary in nature and focuses on two main areas: 1) natural variability in coral and sclerosponge skeletal isotopes on seasonal-to-decadal timescales with applications for paleoceanographic and paleoclimate reconstruction in tropical regions, and 2) coral bleaching physiology with applications for coral reef conservation and ecology. The research approach is primarily experiment driven and includes both field and laboratory experiments.
DUTIES:
- Run samples and maintain all aspects of stable isotope mass spectrometer (Finnigan 252) and Kiel carbonate device
- Manage laboratory (ordering equipment, running samples, involved in training students)
- Involved in all organizational aspects of preparing and executing field work
- Involved in all aspects of sample preparation and analyses in the lab
- Schedule lab activities and equipment servicing
- Participate in field work (approximately 4-8 weeks per year at remote tropical locations)
- Perform other analyses including but not limited to: lipid extractions, chlorophyll a extractions, coral/sclerosponge microdrilling, vacuum line DIC extractions
- Participate in data analysis, interpretation and preparation for publication DESIRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS: -Bachelor of science in any of the physical or biological sciences required. Masters degree preferred but not necessary.
- Experience with stable isotope mass spectrometry is necessary
- Experience with vacuum line chemistry desirable
- Good organizational and inter-personal skills
- Ability to work independently
- Eager to participate in interesting research
- Willingness to participate in both field and laboratory aspects of research
- Comfortable using computers and software (i.e.: Word, WordPerfect, Lotus 123, Excel, PowerPoint, SAS, other statistical packages, etc...)
- Statistical abilities desired
- SCUBA certified
- Previous lab tech experience desirable but not necessary Position includes full medical/dental benefits. Salary commensurate with experience.
CONTACT: Assist. Prof. Andrea G. Grottoli, Department of Earth and Environmental Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6316
tel: 215-898-9269 or 215-990-9736 fax: 215-898-0964 email:
grottoli@sas.upenn.edu
PLEASE SUBMIT: a current resume, the names and contact information of three references, and a cover letter by June 30, 2004 by email to grottoli@sas.upenn.edu