Professor Cascade Sorte in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology invites applications for a research assistant in the Junior Specialist series. Research in the Sorte Lab (www.cascadesorte.org) is focused on the impacts of global change, particularly climate change and species invasions. This position is funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation to study the impacts of species range shifts in coastal ecosystems. The position will be based at UC-Irvine, and the research assistant will participate in fieldwork along the coast of California and Baja California, Mexico.
The successful applicant will support the grant project by implementing field survey and experimental protocols, maintaining lab equipment (including a recirculating seawater system), and collecting data. Additional duties will include logistics (such as ordering supplies, scheduling travel, and submitting permit applications), constructing field enclosures, and data management. The position involves coordination with project collaborators, including students and faculty at UCI and other universities.
Required qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in ecology, marine biology, or related fields completed by the time of appointment; previous experience with ecological field research; strong organizational, teamwork, and communication skills; capacity to regularly work full days outdoors on uneven terrain and under variable field conditions; commitment to promoting field safety, best practices, and the lab’s values of inclusion and diversity; and a valid driver’s license and passport by the time of appointment.
Desirable qualifications include previous experience with field research on marine rocky shores; knowledge of ecological field survey techniques; and experience with data management. Ability to speak Spanish would be helpful but is not required.
Initial appointment is for one year with anticipated extension for up to 2 years total pending satisfactory performance. Appointment is expected to be at Junior Specialist Step I (salary scales are online at https://ap.uci.edu/compensation/salary-scales/).
Applications received by March 21, 2022 will be given full consideration, although applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Start date is negotiable before end of June 2022; a start in April or May is preferred.
Interested individuals should submit a (1) curriculum vitae, (2) cover letter including summary of previous experience and future career goals (as well as desired start date), and (3) names and contact information for three references to the following on-line recruitment URL:
For more information about this position, please contact Prof. Cascade Sorte at csorte@uci.edu.
The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.