Research Assistant Position in Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Stream Biogeochemsitry

We are currently seeking a research assistant to assist with a NSF funded project to look at the impacts of nutrient enrichment on dissolved organic matter cycling in headwater streams. This project will entail substantial field and laboratory work including in situ mesocosm experiments using 13C-labeled substrates and analysis of biofilms for d13C of phospholipid fatty acids. The work will be conducted in tributaries of the Illinois River (heavily impacted by agricultural land activities) and tributaries of the Buffalo River (located within the Buffalo River National Park) in northwest Arkansas.

The assistant will work closely with both graduate and undergraduate students in both the field and laboratory. Field work will include multiple 5-day excursions into the Buffalo River National Park to work on remote study sites. Responsibilities will also include: (1) chemical analyses such as dissolved organic carbon and inorganic nutrient measurements, (2) sample preparation for stable isotope analysis at UASIL (http://www.uark.edu/ua/isotope), (3) data entry, and (4) laboratory maintenance. Potential for involvement with other ongoing projects related to biogeochemistry and global change exists depending upon applicants abilities.

We are looking for applicants with at least a B.S. in chemistry, biology, or some environmental science field. This position will be available for the late spring or early summer 2005. Preference will be given to those with a M.S. and/or those with previous field and/or laboratory experience.

For further information or to apply please contact:

Sue Ziegler
632 Science Engineering Building
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701
479-575-6944
susanz@uark.edu
http://www.uark.edu/~susanz/