Professional Aide – Michigan State University – East Lansing, MI

This is a temporary or an on-call position. Provides professional support. Responsibilities may include general business, science, medical, agricultural or other professional support functions. Term: Temps can work two (2) nine (9) month terms with a week break in service in between and at the end of the second term terminate for three (3) months or switch to an on-call. On-Call allowed to work 1039 hours in any twelve (12) month period.

The Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University (MSU), in collaboration with the USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station, is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant for a project investigating interactions between biotic and abiotic controls on assisted migration in northern forests. The project aims to inform management actions that support resilient forest ecosystems in future climate scenarios. The Research Assistant will provide program support to project investigators, assist in identifying field study sites, lead a publishable literature review/meta-analysis, and contribute to developing additional research proposals. The project will provide opportunity to interact with University, Forest Service, and Wisconsin DNR researchers. The successful candidate will be expected to participate in research group and project meetings, and assist in mentoring undergraduate researcher(s) participating in the project.

The position is available as a temporary hourly appointment for an average of 20-30 hours per week for 9-12 months, with possibility of extension depending on availability of funds and satisfactory performance. We anticipate the position would be ideal for a recent MSc or PhD graduate. The position does not involve field measurements or travel.

Qualifications: The successful candidate will have: an earned MSc or PhD in forest ecology or related field by the position start date; excellent writing skills as evidenced by peer-reviewed publication; the ability to work well independently and collaboratively; demonstrated ability to successfully initiate, manage, and complete quality projects; and excellent professional communication skills. Preference will be given to candidates with experience conducting literature reviews and/or meta-analyses, interest in research that informs forest management decisions, and knowledge of the biotic and abiotic characteristics of northern forest ecosystems. Remote work is possible and will require reliable internet connectivity as needed for videoconferences and accessing shared file space. Position requires ability to sit or stand for long periods of time to perform literature and web searches, read and synthesize peer-reviewed literature, fine motor skills as necessary for typing and interfacing with software for developing presentations and written syntheses, ability to communicate verbally over phone and videoconference, and similar activities.

Location: The position will be based at Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI, USA.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, disability or protected veteran status.

To Apply: Submit the following documents: (1) a letter of interest detailing qualifications for the position and its relevance to your career interests; (2) curriculum vitae; (3) a list of 3 professional references with contact information (institution, email address, phone number); and 4) two samples of professional writing. Incomplete applications will not be considered. A preference for fully remote work should be specified in the cover letter.

STANDARD 8-5

Position requires ability to sit or stand for long periods of time to perform literature and web searches, read and synthesize peer-reviewed literature, fine motor skills as necessary for typing and interfacing with software for developing presentations and written syntheses, ability to communicate verbally over phone and videoconference, and similar activities.