The Nutrient Management and Water Quality group in the Department of Environmental Science and Technology (go.umd.edu/Toor) is looking for a part-time Undergraduate Research Assistant to join our team.
BACKGROUND: Our current research projects focus on how nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus behave in agricultural fields and what interventions are needed to mitigate nutrient loss to the Chesapeake Bay. As part of these projects, we collect and analyze a variety of water, soil, plant, and organic waste samples.
This is a part-time position, with up to 20 hours a week during the academic year, with the pay rate starting at $15/hour. Priority will be given to candidates who have a 5–8 hour opening on Tuesdays and who plan on holding this position for at least one full year. Beyond the set hours on Tuesday, additional hours may be available depending on project needs, but are not guaranteed each week. Summer hours may be extended, and should include a full 8–10 hour day on Tuesdays. Opportunities include mentoring from graduate students and Dr. Toor with potential for professional development commensurate with performance.
This position is primarily in the lab during the school year, with some field work available during the summer. Limited field work during the academic year is possible for students who have a full day available.
Position Responsibilities
● Wash glassware, sample bottles, and other lab equipment (an important part of research in the environmental sciences -- we all started by washing labware!)
● Process soil, plant, and/or water samples (e.g. water sample filtration, plant and soil sample drying, grinding, weighing, sample organization, maintenance, storage, etc.)
● Assist with basic lab analyses such as pH, EC, and various extractions.
● Maintain a clean and orderly workspace, particularly at the end of each shift.
● Assist lab personnel with additional duties as needed.
Requirements and Qualifications
● Ideally, be sophomore status or above and broadly familiar with a laboratory setting.
● Available for on-call duties and flexible time commitment as schedule permits.
● Able to stand for long periods of time.
● Self-motivated and responsible, able to complete tasks in a timely manner.
● Able to work independently or as an active member of a team.
● Comfortable with various activities both in the field and laboratory.
● Demonstrate good organizational and interpersonal/communication skills.
Previous lab experience is preferred but not required to apply. Please email Emileigh Lucas (erosso@umd.edu) with a current resume and brief statements including (1) interest and motivation in working with us, (2) previous lab experience, and (3) a schedule detailing the proposed blocks of time availability (10-20 hours of potential availability, including the 5-8 hour time slot on Tuesdays) for spring 2025, summer, and potential for fall 2025.
