Soil Carbon Lab Research Assistant I

Woodwell Climate Research Center Inc; Falmouth (MA); On-site; USD 49,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

Woodwell Climate Research Center in Falmouth, MA, seeks a Research Assistant I to join the Soil Carbon team. The role involves lab-based sample processing, analyses, and occasional field collection under supervision of a multidisciplinary team.

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s in a relevant field, basic chemistry knowledge, good data management skills, and the ability to lift 40 lbs. Training is provided; position is salaried for 2 years with extension potential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Soil Science, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology or related field preferred.
• Entry-level laboratory position with training provided.
• Able to lift up to 40 lbs and perform field sampling.
• Basic chemistry knowledge and familiarity with lab safety.
• Proficient with MS Excel or Google Sheets for data management.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.

Responsibilities

• Work across agroecosystems with major projects focused on regenerative agricultural practices, cover crop adoption and grazing management systems.
• Collect soil samples in various field settings.
• Process, inventory and catalog soil samples.
• Prepare soil samples by drying, grinding or extraction for various analyses.
• Perform routine soil laboratory testing including, but not limited to, pH, calcium carbonate equivalents, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, elemental analysis for carbon and nitrogen, texture by particle size analysis, colorimetric nutrient assays, microbial respiration, enzymatic activity.
• Data collation and reporting.

Skills

Attention to detail

Note taking

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Soil Science, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology or related field

Tools

MS Excel

Google Sheets

Job description

Woodwell Climate Research Center in Falmouth, MA, seeks a Research Assistant I to join the Soil Carbon team. The role involves lab-based sample processing, analyses, and occasional field collection under supervision of a multidisciplinary team.

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s in a relevant field, basic chemistry knowledge, good data management skills, and the ability to lift 40 lbs. Training is provided; position is salaried for 2 years with extension potential.