Laboratory & field technician

Communicate regularly with the Soil Science Program Director about the responsibilities of the position, and the progress being made with respect to executing and completing the responsibilities. Coordinate and execute the processing of the WGN soil samples with the Soil Science Program Director. This includes the following:

• Grinding and sieving of bulk soil samples;
• Acidifying bulk soil samples for the removal of inorganic carbon;
• Tin packing of soil samples for analysis on an elemental analyzer.

Coordinate and execute the processing of the NRCS CEAP soil samples with the Soil Science Program Director and Postdoctoral Research Associate. This includes the following:

• Weighing and drying of bulk density soil samples;
• Grinding and sieving of bulk soil samples;
• Acidifying bulk soil samples for the removal of inorganic carbon;
• Tin packing of soil samples for analysis on an elemental analyzer.

Conducting pH analyses on bulk soil samples. Help the team transition the office and laboratory to the new space when that time comes. Work with the Soil Science Program Director to setup the laboratory. This includes the following:

• Updating and maintaining the laboratory safety binder and all protocols therein;
• Separating laboratory supplies and field gear by project, and creating and maintain inventories.

Once laboratory equipment is installed, work with the Soil Science Program Director to learn how to operate and maintain the instruments, as well as analyze samples. This includes the following:

• Soil samples on the elemental analyzer;
• Soil samples on the MIR;
• Soil extract samples on the plate reader.

Present progress and updates on the responsibilities of the position at staff meetings. Participate in WGN field sampling campaigns if and when that time comes.