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Student positions
MS student position in winter limnology
We are seeking an MS student to work on an NSF Macrosystems-funded project investigating the influence of warming winters on phytoplankton phenology and ecosystem function. This is part of a larger collaborative project with GLEON partners from University of Missouri, Cornell, SUNY New Paltz, and University of Colorado-Boulder. The project will integrate experimental approaches in aquatic mesocosms at the Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory with a larger scale study of more than 30 lakes across the U.S.
Ideal candidates will be enthusiastic about collaborative team science and the influences of climate change on aquatic ecosystem function. Applications will be considered for start dates in spring or summer 2025. To apply for this position, please send your C.V. and brief statement of interest to Mindy Morales-Williams (ana.morales@uvm.edu, vermontlimnology.com) by Nov.1, 2024.
More information on the Rubenstein School graduate program in Natural Resources and the formal application process can be found here: https://www.uvm.edu/rsenr/graduate_programs.
For undergraduate research opportunities, please contact Experiential & Community Based Learning Coordinator, Sarah Mell (sarah.mell@uvm.edu).
Staff Positions
Limnology Lab Manager
We seek a full-time Lab Manager to coordinate and conduct water chemistry analysis and field activities on small lakes and Lake Champlain in Vermont, USA. This is a 2-year position located in Burlington, VT starting in January 2025 or earlier depending on candidate’s availability. We operate the water chemistry laboratory at the Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Lab and seek an individual with demonstrated experience in water chemistry analysis, limnological monitoring, data management, and creative problem solving. Applicants should hold a BS in environmental chemistry, environmental science, biology, ecology, or related fields and have a minimum of two years’ experience in water chemistry analysis and standard limnological methods. The successful candidate will have demonstrated expertise in water chemistry analysis, limnological field techniques, data processing and QA/QC, and the ability to work effectively and collaborate with a diverse team. Our group is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive community. Applications from women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
For more information including how to apply, please see https://www.uvmjobs.com posting #73825, “Limnology Lab Manager” .
Laboratory & Data Technician
We have an immediate opening for a temporary (1-year) laboratory technician with expertise in data science and/or phytoplankton analysis. The technician will support laboratory activities that align with their expertise in one or both areas. Data technicians should have previous experience in management, analysis, and quality control of ecological data including high frequency sensor measurements. Phytoplankton technicians should have a demonstrated working knowledge of phytoplankton taxonomy and microscopy. This is a 35-hour per week position starting at $23 hourly. To apply, please send a short (1 page) cover letter specifying your area of expertise (data, phytoplankton, or both) and your C.V with contact information for 3 references to Mindy Morales-Williams (ana.morales@uvm.edu). Applications will be considered as they are received for start dates between now and January 2025
Vermont Limnology Laboratory Operating procedures & Code of conduct
Co-written by Ismar Biberovic, Lindsey Carlson, Mindy Morales-Williams, Lindsay VanFossen, and Kate Warner in 2021. This is a dynamic document that will be updated periodically to reflect contributions of new lab members.
Our Collective Values
We are all students and peers, learning together as a team, and are all valued equally as contributors to our shared goals. All viewpoints are welcome, and we do not judge each other for asking questions or for things we do not know. We recognize that open-endedness is an important part of our group dialogue, and that there may not always be closure. In our interactions, we focus on listening to understand and learning, not to persuade others of our individual views. We celebrate each others’ differences, and value all life experiences that we bring to the table, recognizing that our opportunities and access to opportunities differ. By actively practicing these values within our lab group, we support a diverse, welcoming, and productive community of learners. Above all, we strive for equitable treatment and elimination of discrimination in all forms, across organizational and structural levels.
Lab Code of Conduct
Communication, in person or online, should be appropriate for a professional audience, including people of many different backgrounds.
Be kind and respectful to others; allow space for others to participate while practicing active listening (listening to understand, not to respond).
Behave professionally, and without judgment of others.
Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated, nor will jokes about sexual harassment, racism, exclusionary jokes, or aggressions .
Everyone’s feelings and perspectives are valid. If a colleague tells you they have been harmed by your statements or actions, do not be defensive. Instead actively make an effort to understand their perspective, apologize with sincerity, and avoid repeating these actions.
Practice work flexibility: e.g., “While I may be sending this email outside my normal office hours, I have no expectation to receive a reply outside yours.”
Be cognizant that not everyone adheres to the same work schedule, and respect personal lives and private time.
Work is a part of our lives, but it is not our entire lives. It’s essential to make time for personal wellbeing.
Have regular check-ins with lab members and practice open communication. Respect that other lab members may be experiencing challenging life events that they are not comfortable sharing.
We do not perform, we include. Don’t say it, do it.
How to report a problem or seek help
If you are being harassed, have witnessed someone being harassed or have any other concerns about bias incidents, discrimination or harassment, please reach out to Mindy at ana.morales@uvm.edu or, or if you prefer not to report to Mindy, you can fill out this form: Bias, Discrimination and Harassment Incident Reporting Form. You can find more information on UVM’s policy regarding discrimination, harassment and sexual misconduct here :https://www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/UVM-Policies/policies/sexharass.pdf
For sexual violence and sexual misconduct, it is important to note that Mindy and all University Staff are “responsible employees,” meaning that they must report details about the alleged assault to the Title IX Office. Alternatively, you can seek confidential advocacy and support through the Center for Health and Wellbeing campus advocacy service here: https://www.uvm.edu/health/sexual-violence-support-and-advocacy
Graduate school can be taxing and depression and anxiety are common among graduate students, particularly during the pandemic. UVM has counseling services through the Center of Health and Wellbeing. Find more information here: https://www.uvm.edu/health/CAPS
If you are concerned for the wellbeing of an individual at UVM, you can fill out a CARE form.
