The lab of Sabrina Russo at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (https://russolab.unl.edu/) seeks a summer field technician to aid in a project quantifying the effects of smooth sumac, a woody encroaching plant species, on rangeland plant communities in the Nebraska sandhills. This project will inform large-scale assessments of sumac's impact on grasslands, sumac encroachment rates, and point the way to better rangeland management.

The technician will gain experience (1) conducting plant identification and other field methods for assessing grassland vegetation and microclimate, (2) learning remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) techniques, (3) completing data management and analysis, and (4) working with others in team-based ecological research. They will accompany a graduate student, Lillie Hoffart, and a small field team. Some travel from the field station to other sites in the sandhills may be required. The assistant will also assist with research projects in the forest plot located at the same study site. The study site is the Niobrara River Preserve, which is located along the Niobrara River, an ecologically important area with opportunities for hiking, fishing, tubing, or other recreational activities.

The position is full-time (40 hours/week), hourly ($15/hour) temporary (3 months) with no benefits. The position is available starting around May 20th through the second week of August. There can be some flexibility with start and end dates. Housing (in a dorm-style setting) will be provided.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and collaborative workforce. UNL is committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success where every person and every interaction matters. The University is proud to be one of Nebraska's preferred and largest employers where individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential.