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Job Description Summary

The Sistla Lab at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo is seeking a research associate to contribute to a project studying the patterns and implications of plastics in agricultural systems, with a focus on plastic mulch-soil interactions. This is a full time, one-year appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, and continuing availability of funds in the Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department (NRES) within the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California.

The research associate will work within an externally supported research program that is using a multi-disciplinary approach to characterize changes in the intensity, extent, and socio-environmental implications of agricultural plastics use, plastic debris soil to water transfer, and agroecological responses to biodegradable and conventional plastic mulches accumulating in agricultural soils. Complementing field, laboratory, or data-driven research within these areas, the research associate will manage lab day-to-day activities and mentor undergraduate and graduate students in related research.

Minimum Qualifications

• MS in terrestrial ecology, earth sciences, agroecology, or related field.
• Strong data management and analysis skills, including: bioinformatics, biogeochemical, and/or spatial data, demonstrated experience with coding in R
• Ability to work independently in lab biogeochemistry analyses (e.g., nutrient pools, microbial biomass and respiration, microbial community structure and function)
• Demonstrated ability to work in teams and independently.
• Desire to mentor undergraduate and graduate students
• The person holding this position is considered a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth inCSUExecutive Order 1083 as a condition of employment
• A background check is required for all regular, benefited positions

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with CA agricultural systems
• Familiarity with ecosystem ecology, terrestrial biogeochemisry
• Demonstrated ability to work in teams and independently
• Possession of a valid California Drivers License and satisfactory driving record
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Experience working with people of different backgrounds, philosophies, and objectives

Physical Demands

• Hearing and speaking to exchange information in person or on the telephone
• Dexterity of hands, fingers, and wrist to operate a computer keyboard and calculator
• Seeing to read a variety of materials
• Sitting or standing for extended periods of time

Typical Essential Functions

• Organize and lead data analysis, lab and field work
• Complete relevant literature synthesis
• Perform statistical analyses of complex data sets (preferably in R or Python)
• Collaborate on peer-reviewed publications that result from this research
• Manage the lab status and train new personnel on standard techniques
• Mentor students on the project
• Perform other duties assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Directly supervise assigned employees, including graduate and undergraduate students in the field and laboratory
• Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with Corporations policies and applicable laws and regulations
• Direct and monitor employees to ensure that they remain in compliance with policies and procedures

Special Instructions to Applicants

Cal Poly Partners provides excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, paid sick leave/vacation and 14 holidays.

Employees are eligible to participate in the CP Partners Medical Insurance Plan offered through the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). Employees have dif erent plans from which to choose including HMOs and PPOs. The coverage includes the employee, his/her dependents, or domestic partner. CP Partners covers a large portion of the medical premium for the employee and eligible dependents.

All employees are members of the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) and will contribute to their retirement; these contributions can be refunded if the employee terminates prior to retirement.

Please visit our website for additional benefits information. https://www.calpolycorporation.org/resources/business-services/human-resources/benefits/

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check, educational and employment verification, and reference check, as required.

The California State University system (CSU) requires that students, faculty, and any employees of organizations who access campus, or anyCSUfacilities, to be either fully vaccinated or qualify for a medical or religious exemption. Please note if you are chosen for a position with the Cal Poly Partners you will be asked to fill out a Vaccine Attestation once you are hired. This attestation will ask if you are vaccinated or asking for a medical or religious exemption.