Aquatic Ecology Research Assistant at The Ohio State University
DETAILED POSITION DESCRIPTION: One full-time position for a research assistant is
available at Ohio State University working with Jim Hood and John Lenhart. The Research
Assistant will work on a project focused on understanding the role stream and river phosphorus
cycles play in shaping nutrient export to Lake Erie. The Research Assistant will work on a
project focused on understanding colloidal phosphorus cycling and bioavailability in the western
Lake Erie watershed. The Research Assistant will work closely with other team members and
assist with field surveys, laboratory experiments, sample analyses, data analyses, and
undergraduate student mentorship. See http://www.ael.osu.edu/ to learn more about the Aquatic
Ecology Laboratory.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
45%: The research assistant will assist with field and lab work associated with monitoring
colloids in ditches and rivers and collecting samples for colloidal-phosphorus binding and release
experiments. This will include sampling during rain events between March to July. The research
assistant will help run and perhaps lead three day colloidal-P binding and release experiments.
They will also coordinate sample and knowledge transfer with other project partners at OSU,
Heidelberg, and University of Montana.
40%: The research assistant will help process colloid and dissolved phosphorus samples from
edge-of-field, ditch, and stream sampling as well as binding-release experiments. This will
include separating water samples for colloid and dissolved phosphorus analysis, running samples
on a nutrient auto analyzer and an ICP-OES, and processing related samples for other nutrient
fractions, suspended sediment concentration, and chlorophyll a.
15%: The research assistant will enter and help summarize data from monitoring and binding-
release experiments. Depending upon the candidate’s capabilities there may be opportunities to
help analyze data and contribute to manuscripts.
EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related
field (ecology, natural resources, environmental science). Prior field and/or laboratory
experience in aquatic ecology, nutrient biogeochemistry, agriculture soil science, or related field
is required. Candidate must be self-motivated, willing to work both independently and in a team
setting. Preferred qualifications include: a) training and interest in aquatic ecology; b) experience
with laboratory analysis of soluble (NH 4 + , NO 3 - , and SRP) and particulate nutrients (carbon,
nitrogen, and phosphorus) samples with an autoanalyzer; c) experience analyzing water samples
with an ICP-OES; c) experience with the R statistical computing environment and an
introductory-level understanding of statistics.
OFFICIAL TITLE: Research Assistant
SALARY: ~$15-18/hour, depending upon experience. This position is funded through December
2024.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Applications can be submitted through this posting at The Ohio
State University classified site. Please direct questions to Jim Hood (hood.211@osu.edu). We
will start reviewing applications on 20 Feb 2023 and continue until the position is filled.
APPLICATION LINK: https://osu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/OSUCareers/job/Columbus-
Campus/Research-Assistant-Position-in-AEL---Rivers_R52018-1