Research Assistant

Research Assistant

Temporary No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Assist in collecting and analysing water samples for microplastics from local streams.
  • Company: Join Western Carolina University, a leader in environmental research and education.
  • Benefits: Temporary position with hourly pay; gain valuable field and lab experience.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental issues while working in a collaborative team.
  • Qualifications: B.S. in Geology, Hydrology, Biology, or related field required; M.S. preferred.
  • Other info: Apply online; ensure your application is complete to be considered.
Research Assistant
Please see Special Instructions for more details.
Applicants must apply online.

PLEASE COMPLETE ALL AREAS OF THE APPLICATION. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS MAY NOT BE GIVEN CONSIDERATION IN THE REVIEW PROCESS.

Qualified applicants will be contacted by the department directly if selected for interview.

Please Note: Temporary employees are paid bi-weekly on an hourly basis and do not receive benefits.

Posting Details
Posting Information

The research assistant(s) will aid in the collection of water samples for microplastics analysis from Richland Creek and in the collection of plastic debris from selected stream reaches in cooperation of several collaborating organizations. The research assistant(s) will also analyzed the water samples in the laboratory for microplastics.

Background in geology, hydrology, or biology. Ability to conduct field work; general understanding of laboratory analyses; working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, and Powerpoint.

B.S. degree in Geology, Hydrology, Biology, or related field.

M.S. degree in Geology, Hydrology, Biology or related field; Previous experience in the use of ISCO automated samplers, and the analysis of microplastics in water.

Posting Number temp hourly920P
Quick Link for Internal Postings https://jobs.wcu.edu/postings/23668
Classification Title
Working Title Research Assistant
Department Geosciences & Natural Resources
Salary Range $16.00 per hour
Posting Information
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required for this Position
Minimum Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications

Posting Text

Applicants must apply online.

PLEASE COMPLETE ALL AREAS OF THE APPLICATION. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS MAY NOT BE GIVEN CONSIDERATION IN THE REVIEW PROCESS.

Qualified applicants will be contacted by the department directly if selected for interview.

Please Note: Temporary employees are paid bi-weekly on an hourly basis and do not receive benefits.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks.

Western Carolina University uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify. Proper documentation of identity and employability are required at the time of employment.

All new employees are required to have listed credentials/degrees verified within 30 days of employment. All new employees who will be teaching are required to provide official transcripts within 30 days of employment. Transcripts should be provided for the highest earned degree and/or the degree which is being used to satisfy credential/qualification requirements.

Western Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; religion; sex; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; national origin; age; disability; genetic information; political affiliation; National Guard or veteran status, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, and policies, and the policies of The University of North Carolina. Additionally, the University promotes the realization of equal employment opportunity for minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and veterans through its affirmative action program.
Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process please call (828) 227-7218 or email at jobs@email.wcu.edu.

The Western Carolina University Annual Safety Report is available online at University Annual Safety Report or in hard-copy by request at the office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, 227 HFR Administration Building, Cullowhee, NC 28723 (828-227-7147) or the Office of University Police, 111 Camp Annex, Cullowhee, NC 28723 (828-227-7301). The report, required of all universities participating in Title IV student financial aid programs, discusses crime statistics, procedures for reporting suspicious or criminal activity, security, police authority, crime prevention strategies, university policies on substance abuse and sexual offenses, workplace violence and fire safety.

Open Date 03/22/2023
Close Date 03/31/2023
Open Until Filled No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Background/E-Verify
Credential Verification
EOE
University Safety

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

Optional Documents

  1. Resume
  2. Cover Letter/Letter of Application

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

  1. *
    Are you currently enrolled in 6 or more credit hours?
    • Yes
    • No

  2. *
    Are you currently enrolled as a student at WCU?
    • Yes
    • No

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Research Assistant employer: Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University is an exceptional employer for those seeking a meaningful role in environmental research, particularly as a Research Assistant. Located in the scenic Cullowhee, NC, the university fosters a collaborative work culture that values diversity and inclusion, providing employees with opportunities for professional growth and development in the fields of geology, hydrology, and biology. Although this temporary position does not offer benefits, it allows for hands-on experience in vital research projects that contribute to environmental conservation efforts.
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Contact Detail:

Western Carolina University Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Assistant

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific research projects being conducted by the Geosciences & Natural Resources department. Understanding their current work on microplastics will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and knowledge during any potential interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former research assistants in similar roles. They can provide insights into the application process and what the department values in candidates, which can give you an edge when applying.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your fieldwork experience and any relevant laboratory skills in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've applied your knowledge in practical settings, especially related to water sampling and analysis.

✨Tip Number 4

Make sure to highlight any experience you have with ISCO automated samplers or similar equipment in your discussions. This could set you apart from other candidates and show that you're well-prepared for the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant

Fieldwork Experience
Laboratory Analysis Skills
Knowledge of Microplastics
Geology Knowledge
Hydrology Knowledge
Biology Knowledge
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
Proficiency in Microsoft Word
Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint
Experience with ISCO Automated Samplers
Data Collection and Analysis
Attention to Detail
Communication Skills
Team Collaboration

Some tips for your application 🫡

Read the Job Description Carefully: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Research Assistant position. Understand the specific skills and qualifications required, such as a background in geology, hydrology, or biology, and ensure you highlight these in your application.

Complete All Application Areas: Pay close attention to the instruction that all areas of the application must be completed. Incomplete applications may not be considered, so double-check that you've filled out every section before submitting.

Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Customise your resume and cover letter to reflect your relevant experience and skills related to the role. Mention any previous experience with fieldwork, laboratory analyses, or specific tools like ISCO automated samplers, as these are preferred qualifications.

Prepare for Background Checks: Be aware that final candidates will undergo background checks. Ensure that you have all necessary documentation ready, including proof of your degrees and any other credentials that may be required.

How to prepare for a job interview at Western Carolina University

✨Know Your Field

Brush up on your knowledge of geology, hydrology, and biology. Be prepared to discuss how your academic background relates to the role of a Research Assistant, especially in the context of microplastics analysis.

✨Demonstrate Practical Skills

Highlight any fieldwork experience you have, particularly in collecting water samples or using ISCO automated samplers. Be ready to share specific examples of your hands-on experience during the interview.

✨Familiarise with Software Tools

Since the role requires proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, make sure you can discuss your experience with these tools. Consider preparing a brief example of how you've used them in past projects.

✨Prepare Questions

Think of insightful questions to ask the interviewers about the research projects, team dynamics, and expectations for the role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.

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