Research Technician, Crop Protection Ecology

~ Founded in 1976, The Land Institute is a non-profit organization whose mission is to develop perennial grain agricultural systems. ~

The Crop Protection Ecology lab is devoted to managing crop pests and beneficial insects within these systems using a variety of sustainable approaches, including building healthy soils to improve plant health, increasing plant diversity to promote natural enemy and pollinator abundance, and establishing new management strategies for pests unique to our perennial grain crops.

Position Overview

Does the idea of bringing the “ecology” to “agroecology” appeal to you? Would you like to be part of a network of really interesting people who are revolutionizing row crop agriculture? Most of all, do you enjoy playing with insects, plants, and soil? If your answer to these questions are “YES,” then consider applying for our Research Technician in Crop Protection Ecology at The Land Institute!

• Full-time, 40 hr/wk
• Report to: Crop Protection Ecologist
• Effective Date: Negotiable, ideally 5/1/2018

Responsibilities

• Rearing and maintaining colonies of pest and beneficial insects, such as aphids, lepidopterans, lady beetles, and honey bees
• Collecting field samples for long- and short-term research projects at TLI
• Identifying insect specimens from field collections (training will be provided if needed)
• Training and overseeing summer interns in data collection and field plot management procedures n Preparing and shipping soil, plant, and insect samples for analyses
• Entering and updating data in spreadsheets
• Assisting with greenhouse studies n Periodically assisting with research projects conducted by other TLI researchers when needed

Qualifications

Educational Requirements: 

• BS degree in Biology, Ecology, Entomology, Agronomy, or a related field, plus 1 or more years’ experience as a research technician (or equivalent position)
• 1+ years’ experience conducting independent research as an undergraduate OR a Master’s degree may be substituted for postgraduate research technician experience

Other Requirements: 

• Computer literacy, especially proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel n Good oral and written communication skills
• Experience and ability working outdoors
• Observe safety and security procedures; use equipment and materials properly.
• Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines
• Demonstrate accuracy and thoroughness; look for ways to improve and promote quality
• Ability to work well with others throughout the organization to build positive teamwork
• Prioritize and plan work activities; use time efficiently
• Consistently at work and on time; punctual; ensure that work responsibilities are covered when absent
• Follow policies and procedures; complete administrative tasks correctly and on time; support organization’s goals and values
• Willing to adjust schedule to meet the demands of the organization

Desired Skills:

• Experience rearing insects in a laboratory setting
• Taxonomic proficiency with common row crop pest and pollinator species
• Experience collecting insects in the field using any one or more of the following techniques: sweep net, light traps, sentinel traps, pitfall traps, or sticky cards
• Previous experience managing students, interns, or other adult workers

Compensation: Competitive with median salary for the region.

To Apply

Please click "Apply" below to upload your CV/Resume and contact information for three references to Dr. Ebony Murrell. Review of applications will begin March 9, 2018 and will continue until the position is filled.