Rare Plant Research Intern

Position Overview:

Assist the Research Botanist and the Director of Research in on-going research with Pediomelum pentaphyllum (Chihuahua scurfpea), a rare legume found only in Arizona and New Mexico. Research will include both field work (travel required) and laboratory studies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

· Under an agreement between The Arboretum and AZ-BLM, the rare plant research intern will assist in the gathering of laboratory and field data to improve the conservation efforts of P.pentaphyllum.

· Participates in field work examining demography plots. Some weekend work will be expected.

· Participates in associated data entry and analysis. Assists in preparation of reports and other documents.

· Coordinates with staff to assist in supervising volunteers.

· Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

· Coursework towards a degree in the biological sciences, environmental sciences or forestry strongly preferred

· Ability to work successfully with others, and work independently with minimal supervision is critical.

· Strong writing and verbal skills, the ability to type, and computer skills (word processing, databases, and simple graphics) are essential.

· Ability to use GPS equipment and read/navigate with topographic maps, helpful.

· Personal transportation and a valid driver’s license required.

Physical demands

· Ability to conduct fieldwork under a variety of environmental conditions is required. The majority of field work will take place in SE AZ and SW New Mexico.

· Must have physical strength and endurance sufficient to carry field equipment and supplies and hike over uneven terrain. Work may include bending and squatting on uneven terrain for extended periods of time.