Jobs Archive
Research Assistant Senior 1
Closing date: Open until filled
We are hiring again at OSU-CHS in Tulsa! Below please find the advertisement for a Research Assistant in the Vertebrate Paleontology group at Oklahoma State University. We have a dynamic and growing program, and need help to support four research labs with varied (and fascinating) research foci. Tulsa itself is a fun and lively place to live - cost of living is low, and there are many concerts, art shows, sporting events, and performances to attend. There are trails for bicycling and running, many civic improvements in progress, and no, those F5 tornados haven't come anywhere near us. If you know someone who might be interested but is not on the list, please forward the advertisement below!
The Vertebrate Paleontology laboratories in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology at OSU's Center for Health Sciences seek a Research Assistant to conduct and facilitate academic research in support of four faculty members. The work is varied and includes: running a volunteer program; training students and volunteers; managing laboratories; preparing specimens, including paleohistological specimens; and a significant public outreach component.
The Research Assistant must have strong osteological knowledge, with broad experience across Vertebrata. Must be able to use petrographic and binocular dissecting microscopes. Must be able to work independently in the laboratory and as part of a team, good communications skills are key. Should be familiar with general lab safety practices, able to use power tools, and comfortable with chemical preparation, or be willing to learn. If not already proficient with an SEM, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, and specialized analysis software, then should be motivated to learn. Prior experience in a vertebrate paleontology lab, collection, and/or museum is desirable. Creativity and initiative are a must. There may be opportunities to assist with field work but it is not required
Must apply online: https://jobs.okstate.edu, job # 10679.
Graduate Research Opportunity
Academic-year stipend support and partial tuition remission are available through the SDSM&T Museum of Geology for graduate students interested in pursuing conservation paleobiology research using invertebrates and/or microfauna focusing on Miocene – Recent coastal and marine ecosystems.
Opportunities to extend funding beyond the first academic year for up to 2.5 additional years may be provided based on student performance. In addition to research mentorship, the student will receive training in natural-history collections and archives digitization, and online and public floor museum exhibit development.
The Department of Geology and Geological Engineering at SDSM&T offers MS degree programs in Geology and Geological Engineering and in Paleontology, and a PhD in Geology and Geological Engineering.
Interested candidates may contact Drs. Laurie Anderson (Laurie.Anderson@sdsmt.edu) or Christina Belanger (Christina.Belanger@sdsmt.edu) for additional information
Geology Grant Project Assistant
Closing date: None stated
Education:
Post secondary education with background in paleontology. Some experience in collection management practices through apprenticeship or internship would be most desired.
Responsibilities:
To fulfill the requirements for a 3-year IMLS grant to assist with the digitization of MPM's Silurian fossil collections. Work under the direction of the Geology Collections Manager on written and digital documentation of the collection. Will work with other staff on improved intellectual controls for the collection.
The Milwaukee Public Museum seeks an assertive, responsible, dependable, and highly organized grant project assistant to be a part of our collection improvement team on a limited-term part-time I basis (up to 19 or 19-24 hours per week).
Responsibilities include labeling/moving drawers in the paleontology collections, enhancement of catalogue data & record verification, digital imaging, processing digital image files, computer/data base work and specimen inventory.
Assistants will oversee project workload, and once fully trained perform most tasks independently, keeping the Geology Collections Manager informed of progress at all times.
Knowledge of computer applications is essential. Experience in digital photography of objects is desired. A competitive pay is offered.
Curatorial Associate, Vertebrate Paleontology
Closing date: None stated
In conjunction with the Director, Collections Operations and the Faculty Curator, the Curatorial Associate (CA) will determine short- and long-term collection priorities. Assists with development of policies and processes conforming to best practice standards for the long term preservation and conservation of specimens within the collections in accordance with and as defined by natural history museum associations (e.g., Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections, The American Alliance of Museums). Supervises the daily curatorial activities of the curatorial staff assigned to the collections, temporary staff and students. The CA also oversees the activities of academic and non-academic visitors, researchers and students using the collections. Management responsibilities include building and developing a diverse and effective team; planning and delegating work effectively; communicating and monitoring performance expectations; motivating and developing direct reports; and ensuring compliance with Harvard-wide, FAS and MCZ policies and procedures, as well as local, state and federal laws and regulations.
Is responsible for managing the curation of existing and new collections.
Oversees and processes all incoming/outgoing loans of specimens, including
proper documentation for import/export permits. Identifies new acquisitions
through fieldwork, donations, etc and oversees the proper accessioning with the appropriate documents, including capture in the database and maintenance of departmental accession files. Provides oversight and is responsible for the accurate input, data enhancement and updating of computerized specimen database. Prepares and monitors departmental budgets, and orders collection-related supplies necessary for the overall activities of the collections. Consults on the development of work/research areas and collection housing space within the collections spaces for specimens. May assist in preparation of grant proposals for collection or facilities improvement. Participates in museum-wide initiatives and collaborative projects, including with other MCZ collections. Assists the public with questions.
Basic Qualifications
Master’s Degree required in paleontology, geology or biology; with an emphasis in vertebrate paleontology and/or natural history museum studies with experience in handling specimens highly desirable. At least 7+ years of curatorial experience in a paleontology collection (or equivalent); knowledge of vertebrate systematics; 3-5 years of supervisory experience.
Additional Qualifications
Demonstrated writing, public speaking, and organizational skills; excellent computer skills, including database management. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required, as well as the ability to both work independently and in a busy team environment.
Additional information
When applying for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter in our preferred format as one combined document (resume followed by cover letter).
Harvard University is unable to provide work authorization and/or visa sponsorship for this staff position.
Assistant Curator, Paleontology
An exceptional job opportunity with the Virginia Museum of Natural History is now available. The mission of the Virginia Museum of Natural History is to interpret Virginia’s natural heritage within a global context in ways that are relevant to all the citizens of the Commonwealth.
If you meet the qualifications for Assistant Curator – Paleontology, we invite you to apply to join our staff. The starting date for this position is July 1, 2015.
We seek a dynamic individual to conduct integrative, field- and collections-based research in paleontology. The successful candidate will be expected to obtain external funding to support their research efforts. Area of specialization is open, but an active interest in extant museum collections (Cenozoic marine vertebrates and/or invertebrates, Triassic vertebrates and/or insects, paleobotany) is a plus. VMNH is located in Martinsville VA, close to an important Triassic lagerstätte (Solite Quarry). VMNH is also actively involved in the excavation of an important Miocene marine mammal location on the Coastal Plain.
The state-of-the-art fossil preparation lab has full-time technical support and an active core of trained volunteers. VMNH also maintains a range of sterographic and petrographic microscopes, modern collections databases and a research library. Additional facilities are available at Virginia Tech less than 2 hours away. Most curators maintain active adjunct faculty appointments at Virginia Tech. This allows, among other things, internet access to the Virginia Tech library.
General competence in field collection, preparation, care, and management of fossil collections is required, along with the ability to interface with outside scientists requesting access to the collections. Ph.D. in paleontology required.
Duties for this position also include interaction with other museum departments such as education, outreach, exhibits, and advancement. The ability to effectively communicate scientific knowledge to a wide spectrum of audiences is an important qualification.
Only online applications are accepted. In addition to the online application, applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a statement of research and curatorial interests and goals, a list of publications relevant to the application, and names and contact information of at least three references. These documents may be attached to the online application.
Application review will begin 1 November 2014 and continue until the position is filled.
Director of the Illinois State Geological Survey (State Geologist)
The Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS) is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. PRI houses 5 large scientific surveys covering a wide range of expertise including biology, water resources, climate, geology, sustainable technology and archaeology. The ISGS is a premier state geological survey, with over 200 scientists and technical support staff, serving the needs of the public, government, and industry with earth science information and research relevant to natural resources, environmental quality, economic vitality, and public safety. The University is a land-grant institution that provides access to world-class laboratory and academic facilities, Big Ten athletic events, and internationally acclaimed cultural opportunities.
Responsibilities
We are seeking an individual to serve as the chief executive officer and lead scientist for the ISGS, a person who will provide outstanding leadership, direction, and overall administration to:
◦Develop, coordinate, and implement scientific research and service programs, public engagement activities, state-mandated functions, and professional services.
◦Lead an ambitious research agenda for ISGS and ensure that sufficient funds are available to realize that agenda.
◦Mentor staff in developing research programs and professional advancement.
◦Encourage, foster and develop collaborative relationships within the University as well as with stakeholders in state, federal, and international agencies, other academic institutions, and the public.
◦Execute the ISGS mission.
◦Encourage and lead a strong commitment to diversity.
◦Establish retention and recruiting priorities.
◦Foster a culture of innovation and high level of performance at both the individual and organizational level.
◦Encourage and commit resources to support lifelong learning at all levels.
◦Foster a culture focused on awareness, scientific integrity, open communication, and safety.
◦Serve as the Illinois State Geologist and represent the ISGS through professional affiliations.
◦Collaborate with other State Geologists in the formulation of national earth science policies, programs, and related issues.
◦Serve on national committees for science and public policy for the benefit of scientific organizations and the public.
◦Direct and oversee the allocation and use of resources and facilities assigned to ISGS.
◦Develop and interface with ISGS and PRI advisory committees, serve on University committees, and communicate with other offices or campus officials.
Qualifications
Advanced degree in an earth science discipline. Alternate degree fields may be considered depending on nature and depth of work experience as related to ISGS vision and priorities. Demonstrated successful research career and experience in research management, including science-related program development, science-team administration, and/or public service. An established leader demonstrated by success in an area of relevant research in a multidisciplinary research organization with a strong commitment to affirmative action and diversity. Must have a demonstrated high level of professional credibility and personal integrity; an outstanding record of research; obtaining sponsored funding from state, federal, or international agencies and/or the private sector; publishing results in peer-reviewed outlets; and communicating the importance of science to varied audiences. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills and demonstrated experience in interacting successfully with scientists, staff, business, public, and/or elected officials. Demonstrated vision, capability, and experience to address the challenges facing society related to the geosciences, including water, environmental, earth hazard, mineral resource, and/or energy issues.
Ph.D. A scholarly record appropriate for a national or international leader in her/his field, or significant other qualifications. Qualifications to be a licensed professional geologist in Illinois. Collaboration with multiple geoscience subdisciplines or other multidisciplinary scientific efforts. Participation in national or international professional or scientific organizations.
Ideal candidates will hold a doctoral degree and an academic track record appropriate for a tenured full professor at the University, or commensurately significant other qualifications in the field of earth science or related field.
This is a regular full-time academic professional position subject to the availability of continued funding and programmatic needs. The starting date is negotiable after the closing date. Salary is commensurate with experience.
Applicants may be interviewed before the closing date; however, no hiring decision will be made until after that date.
To apply, please visit https://jobs.illinois.edu/academic-job-board
For further information please contact Lori Walston-Vonderharr, Human Resources, Illinois State Geological Survey, at lwalston@illinois.edu
Postdoctoral Scholar – Vertebrate Paleontology Research and Curation
The Museum of Paleontology (UCMP) of the University of California, Berkeley invites applications for a one-year full-time Postdoctoral Scholar-Employee appointment, renewable for a second year. The candidate will work with curators and other museum staff on a new initiative from the Doris O. and Samuel P. Welles Fund that links curation of the Museum’s world-class vertebrate fossil collections with cutting-edge research questions. The position will be approximately 50% curation, 50% research, and offers a competitive salary plus benefits. Review of applications will begin October 1, 2014, and the position can begin as soon after that as a successful applicant is identified, with an anticipated start date of November, 2014.
Responsibilities:
The candidate, upon consultation with Museum personnel, will identify an important paleontological research problem or problems that can be largely addressed in a two-year time frame using the Museum’s fossil vertebrate collections, and carry out this research program while curating associated specimens and mobilizing these data into appropriate online databases. Collaborative research, discussion, and presentation of results in collaboration with members of the UCMP community are expected. Some funds for research expenses and travel are possible. Start date is negotiable within limits, by arrangement with the Director.
Minimum/Basic Qualification Required:
The minimum application requirement is the completion of all doctoral degree requirements except the dissertation or equivalent in the biological, earth sciences, or similar field, with an emphasis on specimen-based paleontological and paleobiological questions.
Additional Required Qualifications:
• PhD or equivalent foreign degree required by start date
• Applicants must have no more than three years of research experience since receipt of PhD at the start of the appointment, and must never have held a formal professorial appointment
• Demonstrated curatorial experience, and taxonomic expertise relevant to the project
• Research interests that are appropriate to the UCMP vertebrate fossil collections
• Explicit plan to collaborate with existing members of the UCMP community
• Demonstrated ability to publish in English-language peer-reviewed journals
• An explicit proposal, detailed in the application, of your research question(s) and how you plan to use and curate specific parts of the UCMP collection to this end
Preferred Qualifications:
The ideal candidate will be able to complete the following:
(1) mobilize large amounts of UCMP data (i.e., specimen records and images) as part of the proposed research as well as the curatorial work
(2) incorporate several taxonomic groups and time scales into the research and curatorial work;
(3) develop new data sets and methods for their study
(4) involve undergraduates and contribute to outreach components (blogs, online images, etc.);
(5) focus on a substantial part of the UCMP fossil vertebrate collections important to a fundamental research questions
Please provide contact information for 3 experts who can provide letters of reference. Letters of reference are not required at this time. We will seek your permission before contacting your references.
Applications must be received by October 1st, 2014. If you have any difficulties uploading your application or any questions, please e-mail azin.gervin@berkeley.edu.
Paleontologist
Successful applicant will responsible for: the performance of the duties of the North Dakota State Paleontologist including the management of the Johnsrud Paleontological Laboratory and curation of the North Dakota State Fossil Collection at the North Dakota Heritage Center; the management of the North Dakota Geological Survey paleontological resources regulatory program and supervision of paleontology staff during office, lab, and field work; responding to public inquiries regarding paleontology in the state and acting in an advisory capacity to other governmental entities regarding paleontological resources in North Dakota; the management of the review, approval, and issuing of paleontological collection permits within the state and supervision of the NDGS public fossil digs program; and, the creation and development of paleontological exhibits for the North Dakota Heritage Center and other public areas across the state.
Minimum qualifications will include:
◦a Doctoral degree in paleontology (preferred) or a Master’s degree in paleontology
◦ten years of related experience
◦experience managing personnel and volunteers on field paleontological investigations and fossil dig
◦experience in curating fossil collections and managing paleontological laboratory resources
◦effective verbal and written communication skills are essential as evidenced through a continuous and comprehensive paleontological publication and presentation record
◦applicant must have a valid driver’s license.
Preferred qualifications will include:
◦a strong background in the conduct of geologic and paleontological public outreach programs
◦a background in the paleontology of Cenozoic vertebrates in the upper Midwest and Mesozoic and Paleozoic invertebrates
◦experience conducting paleontological assessments and managing paleontological resources on government lands
◦experience creating and developing paleontological exhibits for the public
◦extensive knowledge of the geology and paleontology of North Dakota and its context within the regional geologic setting
◦experience acting in a paleontological advisory capacity to state and federal agencies
◦computer experience with working knowledge of; Excel, Outlook, Word, Access, and other applicable programs.
Apply by submitting qualifications online through the nd.gov recruiting solutions system
Include, as attachments, a cover letter and resume, official college transcripts, and the names, addresses, and phone numbers of three references (faculty as well as past or present work supervisors).
The Department of Mineral Resources-North Dakota Geological Survey staff will score applications against the minimum qualifications and preferences listed on the job announcement and qualifying military service. After the scoring is completed, a certified list of eligible candidates and the applications will be forwarded to the hiring manager for further consideration and possible interview, based on the final scores.
Technician (Earth Science)
We are looking to recruit a Technician in Earth Sciences to provide general technical support in Earth Science laboratories and field work for staff and students in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences.
You will mainly be required to service undergraduate Earth Science practical classes and field work and provide technical support during some classes. You should have experience in micropalaeontology. Additional skills in microscopy and the use of specialist geological software is desirable. General assistance with stock control and some administrative duties will be required.
You will be educated to BSc (Hons), or equivalent, in Earth Sciences or a related discipline. You will have a sound understanding of identification of geological materials. The post requires good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
This is a part-time position working 22.5 hours per week, and is fixed-term to cover a period of maternity leave which is anticipated to be for approximately 12 months.
You must be prepared to undertake field work for lengthy periods, sometimes involving unsociable hours.
Analytical SEM / Electron Probe Microanalyst
The Analytical SEM/Electron Probe Microanalyst will oversee the daily operation of analytical SEM (ASEM) and assist with application of electron microprobe. This will include managing bookings for access to ASEM, instructing and training users in the theory and practice of ASEM, assisting users to obtain high quality quantitative results using EDX, and interpretation and reporting of data/results.
Although the primary focus of the role is facility provision, the successful candidate will be encouraged to conduct some research and submit publications and collaborative funding proposals and will be required to undertake national and international travel from time to time.
Role competences:
1. Degree and/or higher degree in Geology/Earth Sciences or significant relevant working experience in analytical electron microscopy.
2. Proven experience in operation of scanning electron microscopes.
3. Demonstrable experience in the use and application of energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) micro analysis for quantitative analysis of geological samples using standards.
4. Operational experience in data collection, reduction and interpretation of EDX results.
5. Ability to operate as an effective member of a team.
6. Demonstrable experience in the identification of mineral phases using ASEM.
7. Ability to identify some of the major minerals (quartz, feldspars, amphiboles, micas, calcite and ore minerals) in thin and polished sections using the petrological microscope.
8. Basic experience in daily maintenance of ASEM (filament exchange, alignment and optimisation) is essential.
9. Experience of wavelength dispersive x-ray (WDX) micro analysis would be desirable.