Job Description

DescriptionThis position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).This position has a term length of 1 year plus 1 day, with a strong possibility of extension, and offers a comprehensive benefits package which can be viewed on our .Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person work at North Campus Edmonton.Working at the University of AlbertaThe University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, M\xc3\xa9tis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. .Working for the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring InstituteThe detects large changes in biodiversity in Alberta with the annually updated Biodiversity Intactness Index and Human Footprint Inventory. This research provides ongoing, relevant, scientifically credible information on Alberta\'s living resources to meet the information needs of government planners, industrial developers and local communities.PositionReporting to the Bryophyte Coordinator, the Bryophyte Technician\'s core responsibilities are: identification of bryophyte specimens; preparation of bryophytes for research; data entry and quality assurance for bryophyte-related data; managing assets related to field and laboratory work; assisting with training and supervision of temporary members of the Bryophyte Unit such as field technicians and volunteers; and participation in field and laboratory research.Duties1. Taxonomic Technical SupportParticipates in development of bryophyte taxonomy and ecological knowledge in support of the ABMI Business Plan.Activities:

• Logging, organizing, labelling, and storage of high volumes of bryophyte specimens;
• Assisting with taxonomic identification of bryophyte samples collected by ABMI;
• Assisting with bryophyte data entry, specimen enumeration, data management, statistical analyses and summary reports;
• Ensuring compliance with specimen data back-up protocols; and
• Preparing selected ABMI bryophyte voucher specimens and related data for confirmation with other experts and/or loaning/gifting to organizations (e.g., universities, natural history museums) in support of research collaborations;

2. Bryophyte Training and Laboratory OperationsSupports the Bryophyte Coordinator in providing training related to the creation and delivery of bryophyte taxonomy and monitoring, including safety and asset management for the Bryophyte Unit, and the supervision of seasonal ABMI technicians or volunteers working in the ABMI Bryophyte Unit.Activities:

• Ensuring that all laboratory and field activities follow applicable safety regulations and standards;
• Assisting with bryophyte-specific training, management and assessments of ABMI summer staff, field crews and volunteers to ensure quality of specimen sorting and preparation in the field and in the laboratory;
• Assisting with periodic updates to training materials and software;
• Developing reference materials of taxa to support training activities (e.g., workshops); and
• Coordinating acquisition, organization and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment and supplies.

3. Bryophyte ResearchSupports the Bryophyte Coordinator with collaborative research projects on bryophytes.Activities:

• Assisting with the exploration of new technologies (e.g., DNA metabarcoding) and resources to support the study of bryophytes;
• Assisting or leading in the description of new species and/or validation of scientific names;
• Assisting or leading in the preparation of scientific manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals;
• Producing accurate, high-quality documentation of bryophytes, which may include scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution macro or micro-photography;
• Participating in field or laboratory research projects as needed; and
• Maintains currency in research advances in bryophyte taxonomy and ecology through regular literature review.

4. Knowledge Dissemination and Stakeholder EngagementFacilitates direct and indirect understanding of ABMI data with scientists, the public, and ABMI stakeholders.Activities:

• Assisting or leading in outreach activities, such as presentations (scientific and non- scientific) and handling of public enquiries (e.g., specimen or photo identification);
• Attending and/or presenting at meetings of professional societies;
• Providing natural history content on bryophytes to support ABMI Communications Plan (e.g., social media posts, website development, etc.);
• Delivering workshops and summary presentations on ABMI-related bryophyte projects; and
• Assisting with the production of manuscripts and technical reports for the purpose of publishing research findings.

Minimum Qualifications

• BSc from a recognized university or college
• 1 year of experience with sample collection, processing and species level identification of Alberta bryophytes, lichen and/or vascular plants;
• Greater than 3 years working experience in the field of taxonomy and/or ecology with excellent organizational, writing and interpersonal skills; and
• Demonstrated practical experience with ABMI\'s field and laboratory protocols.
• Education and experience equivalencies will be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Specific experience with bryophyte sample collection, processing and species level identification;
• Knowledge and skills associated with standard taxonomic practices, collection and preparation of botanical specimens;
• Knowledge of bryophyte ecology, taxonomy and systematics;
• Experience with the use of taxonomic keys and familiarity with microscopic dissection and micro-photography;
• Experience with specimen data management systems;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills;
• Strong track record of compliance with both field and laboratory safety standards;
• Experience in the use of Excel and GIS applications such as ArcGIS;
• Valid Alberta Driver\'s license; and
• Valid First Aid Certificate.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.The University of Alberta is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; First Nations, M\xc3\xa9tis and Inuit persons; members of visible minority groups; persons with disabilities; persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression; and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.Note: This opportunity will be available until midnight August 21, 2024, Edmonton, Alberta local time.

University of Alberta