The Larkin Lab at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is seeking a full-time researcher to support research and extension efforts related to invasive species management and ecological restoration. The position will be based in the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology, and include substantial engagement with external partners. The initial focus of the position will be on efforts to manage invasive Phragmites australis (European common reed, see www.MnPhrag.org) and supporting an ecological restoration training program. Over time, additional research and outreach responsibilities may arise.

The researcher will contribute to project coordination and communication with partners, data entry and management, planning for and conducting ecological field work, lab and greenhouse studies, conducting outreach, securing permits, reporting to funders and external partners, and educational offerings.

Collaborative work with agency partners and outreach to professional and non-professional stakeholders will be essential components of this position. Work will involve a mix of off-campus and on-campus activities, fieldwork, computer-based work, and engagement with internal and external partners.

Overall, responsibilities will comprise a variety of research and extension-related activities, with effort dedicated to each varying seasonally and annually depending on project needs and funding sources. In sum, these activities will include:

• Data entry and management – 30%
• Communication with partners and stakeholders (internal and external) – 15%
• Field work (collecting ecological and environmental data from study sites, helping to supervise field crews) – 20%
• Writing (contributing to reports and outreach publications) – 10%
• Supporting ecological restoration training offerings, including a series of online courses (grading assignments and responding to students’ questions) – 25%