Research Assistant I

Overview: **Term: 4 months.** The Research Assistant I will work in a supported learning environment to assist the Principal Investigator and other research staff and graduate students as applicable, with various research activities. This position will work in the Biology Department at the University, and perform various field and lab research support duties related to relevant research projects and activities. Specifically, the research assistant will support field work related to microplastics in freshwater ecosystems, sometimes requiring travel to the Experimental Lakes Area in Northwestern Ontario. They will also support research related to the effects and suppression of invasive Phragmites australis in Southwestern Ontario, which will require travel to Rondeau Provincial Park and the Long Point region on Lake Erie. Additional research activities may involve sampling in stormwater ponds to study urban biodiversity and pollutants. Lab work will involve processing field collected samples and analysing sediments, water samples, biofilm samples, or invertebrates. **This role is contingent upon funding.** **Responsibilities**: Research Support: - Work is principally outdoors, working to collect field data and samples from wetlands, lakes or stormwater ponds from research stations or other field study locations. - General laboratory maintenance and organization - Assistance in the day to day operations of the Waterloo Wetland Lab - Restocking research materials - Preparation of materials for experiments according to research specifications - Maintains research related records and databases, entering data according to established protocols - Carries out simple tests and measurements - Assist with routine tasks in data collection, sampling, identification and research preparation - Provide general assistance with fieldwork, and collection of specimens/data, as required - Assists with special projects and other duties related to the research Qualifications: - Completion of post-secondary courses in Ecology or equivalent education and experience, field courses are an asset - Preferably possess a degree in the field of Ecology related to wetland or limnological research - Demonstrated field experience in ecology research is preferred - Demonstrated ability to maintain strict confidentiality - Knowledge of University of Waterloo policies and procedures is an asset - Full G license, clean driving record and ability to drive University vehicles is required - Physical requirements of the job include the ability to walk long distances (> 5 km), walk in uneven terrain, and carry a heavy (40 lbs) load. - Must be able to swim and work in boats - Experience conducting job hazard analyses and field risk management assessments is an asset - Valid first aid (CPR +) is required. Wilderness first aid is an asset - Pleasure craft operator’s license is an asset - Proven high-quality customer service interactions with faculty, staff and students - Proven aptitude for attention to detail - Demonstrated decision-making skills, including the ability to ask probing questions and anticipate customer needs. - Excellent communication skills, oral and written - This position will work primarily in the field in wetlands and on lakes in field camps or out of research stations as well as in a university research laboratory. Hours of work may vary depending on research needs, but will include travel requirements Equity Statement: The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within our Office of Indigenous Relations.