University of New Mexico - Albuquerque, NM
posted 5 months ago
The University of New Mexico is seeking a Research Scientist 2 for the Webster Watershed Resilience Lab and the Hurteau Earth Systems Ecology Lab. This position is focused on a new project that investigates the impact of prescribed fire on water quality in headwater watersheds located in the southern Sierra Nevada, California. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in forest ecology, biogeochemistry, and/or watershed science, and will be motivated and organized to contribute to this important research initiative. The successful applicant will lead summer field campaigns at the Teakettle Experimental Forest, which includes responsibilities such as water sampling, off-trail hiking, maintaining automated water quality samplers (ISCOs), taking stream discharge measurements, conducting fuel surveys, and supervising a seasonal technician who will assist with these tasks. This fieldwork will constitute approximately 50% of the position's time. Additionally, the candidate will be responsible for running analytical equipment to analyze water sample chemistry, managing data, and maintaining lab and project organization in the Webster Lab, which will take up about 30% of their time. The remaining 20% will be dedicated to contributing to data analysis, project reporting requirements, manuscript preparation, and assisting with other research in both the Webster and Hurteau Labs. The position will be based in Albuquerque, NM, from October to April, and will transition to the Teakettle Experimental Forest from May to September each year. The field site is located at approximately 7000 feet elevation and is off-grid, providing a unique research environment. While working in the field, the successful candidate will have access to facilities with a kitchen and bathrooms but will be required to sleep in a tent. The position is available starting August 1, 2024, and is initially a one-year contract with the possibility of renewal for two additional years based on satisfactory performance. Exceptional candidates may also have the opportunity to pursue a master's degree in the UNM Department of Biology while working.