LOCATION: Hopland, CA
JOB DESCRIPTION: We seek assistants to work full time on two NSF-funded projects that use a group
of aphid-transmitted viruses and the wild grass species they infect to investigate the dynamics of
generalist, vector-borne pathogens. Employment will extend from early February through June 2013
at the University of California’s Hopland Research and Extension Center:
http://ucanr.org/sites/
greenhouse and lab. Responsibilities include collecting plant samples for biological and chemical lab
assays, surveying aphid populations and enemy damage on plants, estimating plant species
abundances via percent cover, weeding experimental plots, propagating plants in the greenhouse,
and measuring plant physiological traits. Flexible work hours and some weekends required. Start and
end dates are moderately flexible. Dorm housing and on-site transportation is provided, but
assistants are responsible for their own transportation to the site. This is a great opportunity to
participate in and learn about basic ecological and epidemiological research. Interested assistants
can receive scientific and career mentoring, and past field assistants have gone on to permanent
positions and graduate school. Website: http://labs.bio.unc.edu/
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required: Outdoor research experience, especially field work with plants, insects, or microbes.
Willingness and ability to work outdoors under a wide range of weather conditions (daytime
temperatures range from 45-95 ̊F, and rain is common), and to perform mildly strenuous field work
for extended periods (up to 9 hours). Especially essential is a demonstrated ability to work
collaboratively as part of a team and to interact respectfully in a communal living setting.
Preferred: BA or BS degree, with coursework in ecology/botany. Valid driver’s license. Experience
measuring photosynthesis/using IRGAs; experience measuring soil nutrients. Familiarity with
California flora.
TO APPLY: Please send a brief cover letter, a CV or resume, and contact information for at least two
references by email to the address below. Review of applications will begin in late October, and
continue until filled.
SALARY:
$10.61/hr, on-site housing included
LAST DATE TO APPLY:
15 November 2012 (rolling)
CONTACT:
Miranda Welsh
Email: panda@live.unc.edu (preferred)
Phone: 919-357-7833
