The Damschen Lab in the Integrative Biology Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is now accepting applications for a full-time Research Manager to implement a new community assembly and restoration distributed experiment that will evaluate the effects of seed trait variability, provenancing, and species composition on community assembly in tallgrass prairies. The position involves site preparation (including herbicide application and tilling), vegetation and soil sampling, collection of plant functional traits, and the collection of abiotic data (e.g., temperature, humidity, light). The Research Manager will interact closely with the PI, Ellen Damschen and postdoctoral researcher, Stephanie McFarlane, as well as other members of the Damschen Lab, local landowners, and Natural Resources Conservation Service employees. This position will be based at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Field sites will be located within ~2 hrs. of Madison, WI. Work will be in both the field and lab. This position will allow candidates to gain new skills and experiences that can be used to advance their career in ecology (e.g., preparing for an advanced degree).

Required qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in ecology or a similar field.  Previous experience establishing and/or maintaining ecological field studies, conducting different types of vegetation surveys, supervising field assistants, serving as a research leader, collaborator, and mentor, managing and analyzing ecological community data. Ability to taxonomically identify species of plants and engage with and present information to management partners. Enjoys being outside and comfortable working in variable weather (hot and humid or cold) and uneven terrain. A valid US driver’s license and the ability to obtain driver authorization from UW Risk Management: http://www.bussvc.wisc.edu/risk_mgt/drivetable.html.

Preferred qualifications: Master’s Degree in ecology or similar field of study. Deep botanical knowledge of the tallgrass prairie flora, herbicide application experience, prescribed fire training/experience.

Salary will be approximately $37,500/yr. depending on qualifications. Preferred start date is March 1, 2024. Funding is available for one year with a possible extension if funds are available and goals are being met.

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Our lab values the contributions of each lab member and respects the variety of ways that identity, culture, background, experience, status, and perspective enrich the research we conduct. Our lab aims to make science and ecology more inclusive of people of all identities, and we strongly encourage people of color, and people of all genders, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds to apply.

To apply, email a single pdf that includes a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three professional references, including your current supervisor to Stephanie McFarlane at mcfarlane@wisc.edu. Your cover letter should include relevant experiences as they pertain to the qualifications listed above, why you are interested in this position, and how it fits with your career goals.