The Larkin Lab at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is seeking a full-time researcher, job code 8352EN, to support research and extension efforts related to invasive species management and ecological restoration. The position will be based in the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology, and include substantial engagement with external partners. The initial focus of the position will be on efforts to manage invasive Phragmites australis (European common reed, see www.MnPhrag.org) and supporting an ecological restoration training program (extension.umn.edu/courses-and-events/ecological-restoration-training-online). Over time, additional research and outreach responsibilities may arise. 

The researcher will contribute to project coordination and communication with partners, data entry and management, planning for and conducting ecological field work, lab and greenhouse studies, conducting outreach, securing permits, reporting to funders and external partners, and educational offerings. 
Collaborative work with agency partners and outreach to professional and non-professional stakeholders will be essential components of this position. Work will involve a mix of off-campus and on-campus activities, fieldwork, computer-based work, and engagement with internal and external partners.
Overall, responsibilities will comprise a variety of research and extension-related activities, with effort dedicated to each varying seasonally and annually depending on project needs and funding sources. In sum, these activities will include:

●Data entry and management ⓠ30%
●Communication with partners and stakeholders (internal and external) ⓠ15%
●Field work (collecting ecological and environmental data from study sites, helping to supervise field crews) ⓠ20%
●Writing (contributing to reports and outreach publications) ⓠ10%
●Supporting ecological restoration training offerings, including a series of online courses (grading assignments and responding to students♠questions) ⓠ25%

 

Required Qualifications:
●Bachelorâ™s degree in ecology, biology, environmental science, or a related field, or a combination of education and relevant experience to equal at least four years.
●Ecological fieldwork experience
●Experience with data management (including spreadsheets)
●Strong written and verbal communication skills
●Enthusiasm for engaging with diverse stakeholders
●Ability to work independently and in a team environment
●Care and attention to detail
●Ability to complete assigned tasks according to project timelines

Preferred Qualifications:
●Prior experience related to invasive species and/or ecological restoration
●Experience working with agency staff and other stakeholders in natural resources management
●Field data collection experience related to vegetation, especially wetland vegetation
●Familiarity with EDDMapS
●Experience with ArcGIS
●Ability to work long hours outside, in uneven or wet terrain, and in inclement weather conditions
●Willingness to travel for work, sometimes for extended periods and with camping accommodations
●Ability to safely work in outdoor environments
●Valid U.S. state driverâ™s license

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

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