The University of Michigan Biological Station (UMBS), located on the shores of Douglas Lake in Northern Michigan, has seasonal positions available for spring and summer, 2012.  Housing and meals are provided for all positions, and salaries are commensurate with experience.  

Analytical Chemistry Lab Assistant
The UMBS lab provides analytical support to student and faculty investigators working on a wide range of ecology projects.  Primary responsibilities include logging in samples, mixing reagents, preparing standards and after suitable training, running nutrient analyses using a segmented flow analyzer.  The candidate may also be trained on other instruments depending upon interest and experience.  The ideal candidate should have successfully completed at least one year of chemistry, be familiar with basic laboratory practices and be comfortable working with using instruments.  The position starts May 14th and goes through August 20th.
 
Computing Consultant
The computer consultant is responsible for the smooth operation of a student and researcher computer lab open 24 hours/day (approx. 30 computers, both Windows and Macs, and printers).  The consultant will perform routine maintenance of all hardware and software, including printers and scanners, advise students how to use software, reinstall software, and help undergraduate and graduate students as well as instructors, researchers and staff with computer questions, laptops, etc.  The consultant will also schedule the computer labs for classes and individuals. Qualified candidates should have experience with Windows and Macs systems, hardware, software, printers as well as word processing, graphing, email and PowerPoint.  Knowledge of statistics (Systat and Excel) is also desired.  The position starts May 14 to August 31.

Statistics Advisor
The statistics advisor serves as a resource for undergraduates enrolled in spring and summer term courses, all of whom are conducting independent or group research projects as core components of their course work or research program.   In addition, the statistics advisor could also serve as a resource for graduate students and scientists of all levels conducting research at UMBS. Qualified candidates should have at least 2 years of graduate training in statistics or biostatistics. This part-time GSI position may be ideal for a graduate student working on his/her own research, thesis or dissertation.   

Garden Steward
We are looking for a student to manage the UMBS community garden for the 2012 season.   This is a great opportunity for a student who wishes to take one summer-term 5-credit course at UMBS and serve as the manager of the garden project from early May until the end of the summer term (Aug. 20).  The goal will be to educate the UMBS community about organic farming practices and to provide supplemental produce for the dining hall.  Right now, we are planning for three garden sections, 1) food production, 2) ethnobotanical (led by the spring term Ethnobotany course), and 3) experimental.  Along with the possibility of incorporating the garden into UMBS courses, we are planning to organize educational activities for the entire UMBS community.  The Garden Steward will work directly with Karie Slavik, UMBS Associate Director, to develop a plan for the garden, order supplies, prepare the site, plant, maintain, and harvest the garden.  The Garden Steward will also lead and coordinate the work with volunteers as well as help to organize educational activities for the UMBS community throughout the season.  Compensation includes room and board at the station and $9/hour for a 20 hour work week.  In addition, as a student you will be eligible to apply for merit and need-based scholarships and financial aid to help cover your tuition through the UMBS course application process.  Candidates should have experience with farming or large gardens and a strong interest in organic and sustainable agriculture.

Resident Staff Position
Resident staff members will serve as the first line of communication and as a resource for students and resident researchers on behalf of UMBS.  Primary responsibilities will be to assist residents in resolving problems, communicate policies to residents, communicate problems to the Associate Director, and plan and encourage participation in UMBS activities.  As fully participating members of the UMBS community, resident staff will demonstrate a commitment to residents by viewing the Biological Station as their primary place of meals and residence, and participating in social and educational activities.   All staff members are required to uphold all aspects of the Community Living Standards.  Appointments follow the spring (May 17-June 17) and summer (June 21 – August 19) term schedules.

To apply for any of these positions, please email a letter of interest and current resume to Karie Slavik or stop by 2541 Chemistry Building.  Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.