Title: Summer Field Research Assistant
Exemption Status: non-exempt
Department: Conservation Science
Reports to: Senior Conservation Scientist
Seasonal Full-time
Position Overview:
Summer researchers will contribute to a research group () in western Minnesota. The Echinacea Project investigates how small population size and reduced genetic diversity influence individual fitness, population demographics, plant-insect interactions and evolution in the purple coneflower, Echinacea angustifolia. They will collect data for several long-term research projects, maintain experimental plots, remove invasive species, harvest seed, deploy emergence traps to collect ground-nesting bees, sample pollen and nectar, assess floral resources in remnant prairies and restorations, and characterize nesting habitat for bees. The research assistant must work outdoors in adverse conditions, be able to navigate hilly and uneven terrain, exhibit patience and attention to detail, possess good hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, work well independently and as part of a team, and have an interest in scientific research. Enthusiasm and a willingness to work outdoors are required for this position.
Responsibilities
In this role you will be responsible for the following:
Chicago Botanic Garden Values & Behaviors:
VALUES As an organization, we... | BEHAVIORS As an organization, we... |
Prioritize a culture of GROWTH. We commit to remaining curious in how we approach our work. |
|
Seek to UNDERSTAND. We seek to understand others from their perspective. |
|
See one another through a lens of RESILIENCE. We believe that all individuals can experience good outcomes with support. |
|
Build TRUST through TRANSPARENCY We hold ourselves and others accountable by centering decision making that honors all people. |
|
Qualifications
Our ideal candidate will have the following:
Physical Demands:
Work full days outdoors in adverse conditions, walk in uneven terrain, sometimes with heavy objects, exhibit patience, pay attention to detail, possess good hand-eye coordination, and use fine motor skills. Work inside using equipment including computers, scanners, dissecting scopes, insect pins, and silica gel desiccant.
Why Apply?
Come work in a setting that is like no other as you support our mission: We cultivate the power of plants to sustain and enrich life. Take the first step toward being one of the employees who make the Garden one of the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Apply today. Please note that applicants who do not meet the required qualifications will not be considered.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, or basis of disability, or any other federal, state, or local protected class.
Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and qualifications required of personnel so classified.
In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, Chicago Botanic Garden does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its programs or activities, including in employment or admissions. Please call (847) 835-8264 to contact our Title IX Coordinator should you have questions or concerns. Please do not call this number to inquire about job postings or the status of your application, or with solicitations from companies or third-party recruiters.