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Thursday, May 15, 2025

Hiring Undergraduate Research Assistants in Urban Ecosystem Ecology

Dr. Mitch Pavao-Zuckerman is looking to hire a part-time (15-30 hours/week) Undergraduate Student Research Assistant or two for Summer 2025 to focus on the ecosystem services of green infrastructure and urban forests.

The undergraduate assistant will work with graduate students and the PI in conducting field sampling and lab analysis of plant and soil samples taken from local stormwater green infrastructure and urban forest settings. They will learn protocols to determine physical, nutrient, and biological properties and processes that support ecosystem services. The assistant will also work with a suite of automated apparatus for measuring soil hydrologic properties and contribute to the development of laboratory workflows and protocols. The position would include a mix of field sampling and lab analysis and data entry. Previous experience in lab-based soil and ecosystem analyses is a plus but not necessary. The student must show a demonstrated work ethic, attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and stick to a regular work schedule for field sampling.

Pay rate will start at $15/hour with a need for 15-30 hours availability per week – funding is available for this summer, with potential for extension into the fall. Opportunities include learning research protocols and professional development with mentoring from graduate students, post-docs, and Dr. Pavao-Zuckerman.

Applications should be emailed to Dr. Mitch Pavao-Zuckerman mpzucker@umd.edu. The applications should include an updated resume, a brief cover letter that explains your relevant experience and interest for that position and a schedule detailing the general proposed blocks of time (Monday – Friday from 8am to 6pm) that you would be able to work during the summer.