Lab Technician at Northern Arizona University

Opportunity Type: Jobs

The Center for Ecosystem and Science and Society at Northern Arizona University is searching for a Research Associate to manage the Plant and Ecosystem Ecology Research (PEER) lab, an inclusive, productive, and enthusiastic group of faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate and undergraduate students led by Regents Professor Michelle Mack and Assistant Professor Xanthe Walker. The lab manager will be primarily located in Flagstaff, AZ, with optional summer travel to the Bonanza Creek LTER site in Fairbanks, Alaska and other Arctic and boreal areas. The manager will focus on laboratory analyses of plant and soil samples, development of new analytical protocols, maintenance of lab organization and safety, and coordination and supervision of graduate and undergraduate students.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master’s degree in relevant discipline (e.g., Biology, Ecology, Forestry, environmental chemistry) and four to six years of research support experience, including work in the lab, OR a combination of related education, experience and training may be used as an equivalent to the above Minimum Requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience designing, conducting, and supervising lab work. Knowledge in statistical analyses of ecological data. Ability to complete and oversee laboratory work related to processing soils and plants for biogeochemical, isotopic, and molecular analyses.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

Knowledge of principles and techniques of laboratory analyses of plant and soil samples to address ecological questions. Knowledge of proper safety and compliance practices related to the conduct of research. Technical understanding and proficiency related to conducting relevant research procedures. Ability to balance competing priorities and ability to make decisions regarding resource allocation. Ability to independently conduct data and information quality review and support analyses. Effective communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences, including undergraduate and graduate students and faculty collaborators. Knowledge to promote a diverse, inclusive, and safe environment.

Salary:

Starting range is $54k-68k per year. Annual salary commensurate with candidate’s qualifications and related experience.

Benefits:

This is a Service Professional position with potential for career advancement. NAU offers an excellent benefit package including generous health, dental and vision insurance, participation in the Arizona State Retirement System or the Optional Retirement Program; 22 days of vacation and 10 holidays per year; and tuition reduction for employees and qualified dependents.