Part-Time, Temporary Research Aide - 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 a Research Assistant to assist with bioenergy research by performing assays of soil and plant tissues in a laboratory setting. The position will assist with processing samples and performing wet chemistry assays of carbon and nitrogen cycling.

What You'll Do

• Prepare soil and vegetation samples for wet chemistry assays.
• Assist with carbon and nitrogen cycling assays in the lab.
• Record data and maintain an organized laboratory environment.
• Clean glassware and lab benches.

Pay Grade: 10

Length of Assignment: Approximately 5 Months

Work Hours: 30 Hours per Week

• Associate degree or equivalent in plant and soil sciences, biology, microbiology, environmental sciences, or a related discipline.
• 0-6 months, including time spent in undergraduate school.
  
  
  
  
  • Laboratory and field experience related to soil biogeochemistry and plant microbe interactions.
  
  
  
  
• 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 perform lab assays of soil and plant carbon and nitrogen cycling.
• Demonstrated knowledge of ecosystem ecology, soil biogeochemistry, and plant-microbial interactions
• Demonstrated ability to organize data and enter data into lab notebooks and databases.
• Demonstrated ability to perform basic wet chemistry and reagent preparation.
• 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.
• Thorough knowledge of proper English, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence structure.

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.

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 an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.