You are viewing a preview of this job. Log in or register to view more details about this job.

Research Technician - Hire Achievers

About this Job
The Paleo Lab in the Department of Earth Sciences is seeking two individuals to conduct quantitative analyses on environmental samples including sediments, waters, and other geological materials. Daily tasks will vary according to the nature of the material being analyzed and the specific analysis being performed. No experience or technical skills are required, and the candidate will receive training in all analytical techniques and laboratory procedures to be undertaken. In addition to lab work, there will be opportunities to participate in field research activities.
 
About the lab
Headed by Dr. Broxton Bird, the Paleo Lab conducts a range of palaeoclimatological, sedimentological and geomorphological research in Indiana and around the world. In the Midwest, our research aims to determine the relationships between climate change, flood variability, land scape evolution, and human society. Internationally, we are conducting research on monsoon variability in South America and Tibet. Hire Achiever students will have the opportunity to work more deeply with the data they produce as part of the Paleo Lab to consider climatological and environmental issues. 
 
Responsibilities will include:
-       Preparation of sample material for physical and geochemical analysis
-       Conduct analyses using laboratory equipment after training
-       Record all data and results in specified from with accuracy and responsibility
-       Maintain equipment
-       Ensure all safety guidelines are followed strictly at all times
-       Attend weekly (informal) laboratory meetings on Zoom or in person depending on Covid-19     

Learning Outcomes: By participating in the duties associated with this position, the student will develop and/or expand the following skills.
-       Employing the scientific method: Students will employ the scientific method to address a range of environmental issues, including past expressions and causes of climate change, landscape-climate interactions, and human-climate-environment interactions.
-       Employing analytical laboratory techniques for geological research: Students will be trained to use a range of technical laboratory equipment, including X-Ray fluorescence (XRF), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS), laser-based grain size analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
-       Prepare sample for other analyses: Students will assist with the preparation of samples of a variety of analyses including isotope analyses, elemental analyses, compound specific hydrogen isotopes. The student may have the opportunity to travel to other labs to learn techniques depending on Covid-19.
-       Interpreting and communicating scientific data: The student will work with PI Bird to synthesize and interpret the data they produce. Results will be presented and discussed at informal weekly laboratory meetings.
-       Potential to learn field techniques. If interested, the student may have the opportunity to participate in field expeditions to study areas in the Midwestern United States.
 
NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED - Any IUPUI enrolled student from any major and any undergraduate level (1st year on) is encouraged to apply. Those from groups traditionally minoritized in STEM are especially encouraged to apply.

WHO'S ELIDGABLE?
Freshman and Sophomores Only
Federal Work-study award
 
About IUPUI - Purdue School of Science
The School of Science at IUPUI is critical to the success of the life, health and technology industries in central Indiana—our graduates are the life blood of an economy that needs innovative thinkers, contributing team members and eager learners. Committed to having real impact in their work and community, our graduates emerge from the School of Science as well-rounded scientists whose experiences have prepared them to solve the problems of the future.

Hire Achievers Program Summary: This position is offered as a part of the Hire Achievers Program and aims to connect IUPUI undergraduate freshman and sophomores, with positions on-campus with faculty and staff in a variety of campus areas/programs. Positions start in August and end in May. Students in this program will be expected to participate in a variety of professional development learning modules in an online format throughout the year. Students who complete the entire year of the program and all of the learning modules will receive a certificate of completion and will be able to indicate their Hire Achievers experience on their IUPUI Experiential and Applied Learning Record.