Seasonal, Research​/Development, Research Scientist

Job Description

The Ecosystem and Soil Ecology Laboratory (ESE) is seeking a research assistant to provide support in processing and analyzing soil samples for the Coastal Observations, Measurements, and Predictions Across Systems and Scales (COMPASS) Research Project. The research assistant will work closely with lab staff and graduate students in the laboratory, processing soil samples for nutrients, various soil characteristics, and soil microbial enzymes.

They will be responsible for professional laboratory-based tasks such as materials preparation, washing glassware, sample labeling, weighing samples, preparing reagents, pipetting samples and solutions, laboratory maintenance, and data entry.

In this position, research assistants will assist in the analysis of samples on instrumentation at the Lake Erie Center in Oregon OH, a 30‑minute drive from UToledo’s main campus. Work at Lake Erie will require performing sample dilutions and calibrating instruments with limited supervision following training. Training will be provided for all responsibilities but transportation to Lake Erie Center will not be provided.

Research assistants are expected to aid in processing soil samples from quarterly sampling campaigns upon field crew return. Opportunity for involvement in field work at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge for this position per applicant interest is available but is not required. This position is limited to a maximum of 1000 hours of work per calendar year.

Contact Professor Michael Weintraub, Michael.weintraub, with questions or for more information about this position.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Prior coursework in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, ecology, environmental sciences, environmental engineering, or related discipline preferred (bachelor’s degree not required).
• Willingness and ability to learn soil and nutrient analysis procedures.
• Must be dependable and follow an agreed upon schedule.
• Must be able to work independently and communicate effectively as a team member. Must work well within a small group including, at times, staff/students from collaborating research institutions.
• Commitment to a safe and inclusive working environment required.

Communication and other skills:

• Effective communication skills (oral and written).
• Ability and desire to collaborate with a large multi‑institutional collaborative team.
• Ability to work independently and to make decisions concerning laboratory safety and other logistical factors.
• Ability to work closely with students, faculty, and other staff to maintain research efficiency of the project.

To promote the highest levels of health and well‑being, the University of Toledo campuses are tobacco‑free. Pre‑employment health screening requirements for the University of Toledo Health Science Campus Medical Center will include drug and other required health screenings for the position.

The University of Toledo is an equal opportunity employer. The University of Toledo does not discriminate in employment, educational programs, or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military or veteran status, disability, familial status, or political affiliation.

The University is dedicated to attracting and retaining the best and brightest talent and fostering a culture of respect.

The University of Toledo provides reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodation to complete this application, or for testing or interviewing, please contact HR Compliance at hr compliance or 419‑530‑4747 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. or apply online for an accommodation request.