Research Assistantship- Invasive Grass Ecology FIU

Project Description: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden's Center for Tropical Plant Conservation and Florida International University seek a graduate research assistant to study the invasive ecology of the exotic grass Melinis repens in pine rockland and scrub plant communities of Miami-Dade County. This 2-year position will require the development of Best Management Practices for the funding agency in addition to a peer-reviewed publication about the research.

Skills needed: Coursework and interest in plant ecology, conservation biology, botany, agronomy, forestry, horticulture or plant sciences; ability to perform demanding outdoor physical labor in hot and humid conditions, lift and carry 30 lbs, and hike in uneven terrain for 2 miles; proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and/or Access; willingness to learn new protocols and programs; excellent written and oral communication; ability to work cooperatively with FTBG and FIU colleagues and independently; and willingness to complete other duties as assigned.

Application Instructions: Application for this position must coincide with application to Florida International University. Send letter of interest, resume, and two letters of recommendation to: Hong Liu, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Center for Tropical Plant Conservation, 11935 Old Cutler Rd., Miami, FL 33156-4242 or hliu@fiu.edu. Position provides half-time salary of $15,000 for 2 years and modest funding for travel and supplies. FTBG is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Closing date for applications: September 1, 2009.

Deadline to apply for FIU spring 2010 semester: October 1, 2009.