Research Assistant

Temple University's College of Science & Technology is searching for a Research Assistant.

Salary Grade: T23

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Job Summary:

The Research Assistant at Temple University's Ambler Field Station in the College of Science & Technology's Biology division will support research focused on understanding forest ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity, and the impacts of environmental disturbances. The research will have two main objectives: (1) to monitor long-term ecological changes within forest ecosystems, and (2) to assess how extreme weather events and invasive
species influence plant community composition and forest regeneration. The technician will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to implement field and lab-based research programs aimed at understanding ecosystem resilience and facilitating data-driven conservation
strategies.

The Research Assistant at Ambler Field Station will apply ecological, botanical, environmental, and quantitative methods to collect, manage, and analyze data related to forest composition, plant physiology, and environmental variables. Responsibilities include conducting field surveys using standardized protocols (e.g., ForestGEO), deploying and maintaining environmental sensors, and collecting and processing plant, soil, and insect samples. The Research Assistant will also manage large datasets, conduct preliminary data analysis, and collaborate with state, federal, and academic partners to refine data collection protocols and ensure high-quality research outcomes. Additional tasks may involve planning and implementing educational outreach programs based on field station research and assisting in the training of student researchers. Performs other related duties as assigned.

The work for this position will be conducted primarily in the field at the Temple Ambler Field Station Temple Ambler Field Station on Temple University's Ambler Campus in Ambler, Pennsylvania (outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania). This position may include travel to conferences, meetings, or other field locations within Pennsylvania, and the technician may participate in outreach activities that engage local communities.

Required Education & Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Evolution, and Biodiversity, or related field and at least six months of related research experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Excellent interpersonal skills, along with the ability to effectively interact with a diverse population of students, faculty and staff.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Ability to carefully and accurately collect data in the field, laboratory, and greenhouse.
• Ability to record detailed records and inventories.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., R, SAS, MATLAB) and GIS platforms (e.g., ArcGIS, Survey123).
• Strong organizational skills for managing datasets, field surveys, and laboratory work.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to mentor students and work collaboratively in a research setting.
• Knowledge of plant biology, ecology, and environmental monitoring techniques.
• Familiarity with lab protocols for sample collection, identification, and cataloging.

Preferred

• Experience in plant identification.
• Experience in entomology, plant physiology, species invasions, or conservation biology.
• Experience with ForestG

Temple University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all in every aspect of its operations, including employment, service, and educational programs. The University has pledged not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, marital status, national origin or ethnic origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or veteran status. Compliance Statement: In the performance of their functions as detailed in the position description employees have an obligation to avoid ethical, legal, financial and other conflicts of interest to ensure that their actions and outside activities do not conflict with their primary employment responsibilities at the institution. Employees are also expected to understand and be in compliance with applicable laws, University and employment policies and regulations, including NCAA regulations for areas and departments which their essential functions cause them to interact.

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