Research Specialist: Plant Physiology Lab Lead Technician

Research Specialist: Plant Physiology Lab Lead Technician

Holden Arboretum: Long Science Center

Opportunity:

The Research Department at Holden Forests & Gardens seeks a Research Specialist to serve as the Plant Physiology Lab Lead Technician, leading day-to-day research operations within the lab. The plant physiology lab studies the ecological and evolutionary impacts of variation in plant form and function using greenhouse-based manipulative experiments and field-based sample collection. Studies include investigation of anatomy, chemistry, photosynthesis, and water relations, especially phylogenetic comparative studies of Rhododendron species, but also other woody plants. The Research Specialist supports and/or leads research projects, including reading and summarizing relevant scientific literature, purchasing technical materials and supplies, troubleshooting protocols, conducting data collection, implementing data management, training students and visitors in lab methods, conducting plant care, and overall management of lab logistics and organization. The technician may also participate in design and building of physiology equipment and protocols, data analysis, and/or scientific manuscript preparation, depending on the qualifications and career interests of the chosen candidate. This position is based at the Long Science Center on the campus of the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, OH. We are looking for a team member who thinks critically, has high attention to detail, can work in a team & independently, and wants to do meaningful work in an organization that values diversity of thoughts and perspectives. Holden Forests & Gardens connects people with the wonder, beauty and value of trees and plants, to inspire action for healthy communities. HF&G strives for a welcoming workplace where everyone feels that they belong.

Position Details:

• Reports to Plant Biologist: Juliana Medeiros, PhD

• Position begins in July, flexibility in start date

• Non-Exempt

• Part-Time: Approximately 24 hours a week

Key Responsibilities:

Key responsibilities of the Research Specialist include but are not limited to:

Research Projects:

• Support Holden Forests & Gardens' mission, vision, and values

• Practice generally accepted ethical standards in research and scholarship

• Assist with and/or lead planning, upkeep, and data collection for experiments

• Assist with and/or lead data management, analysis, and preparation of reports for publication and presentation

• Maintain good lab organization and supervise lab clean-up

• Manage purchases, including quotes and ordering

• Keep updated financial records and assist with budgeting

• Assist interns, students and other lab guests with protocols, data collection and constructive feedback on projects, talks and manuscripts

• Contribute to internal and external communication of the research, such as writing and taking photos for a blog

• Take part in educational activities such as leading tours of labs, attending or presenting talks related to physiology research

• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Skills:

• Demonstrated passion for people and nature

• A Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, agriculture, forestry, or related field, required

• Master of Science, preferred

• Troubleshooting and technical problem solving

• Working independently as well as in a team.

• Financial record keeping and purchasing

• Scientific data collection

• Project management and documentation

• Plant propagation/plant care experience preferred

• Plant physiology laboratory experience preferred

• Coding experience preferred (R, Python, Matlab)

• Managerial or supervisory experience preferred

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to perform with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Must be able to sit or stand at a computer and/or lab bench

• Observe and react to hazardous laboratory situations

Some of the reasons Holden Forests & Gardens (HF&G) is a great place to work!

Work in a beautiful environment within Greater Cleveland | Discounts in our stores & cafes | Free parking at both campuses anytime we are open |

Free admission to many Northeast Ohio Museums | Free Employee Assistance Program | And Much More!

Apply:

Holden Forests & Gardens values an authentic sense of belonging at all levels of the organization, including staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and visitors. HF&G believes that working toward an equitable culture that values all perspectives enriches the work environment, helping achieve our goal to build a greener and healthier Northeast Ohio. We are working to create and sustain a supportive environment and sense of belonging for people of all backgrounds. HF&G also provides regular DEAI training for staff, managers, volunteers and Board to create a welcoming and accessible environment.

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job posting describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Qualified applicants should submit résumé, cover letter and 3 professional references.

Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden) is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to hiring a diverse and talented workforce. We seek skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced individuals to join our staff and enhance our reputation as one of the country's foremost public gardens.