Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences

Employment Opportunities with the Center for Limnology

The Center for Limnology includes a technical staff of professional research assistants and student employees. In addition, postdoctoral scientists are an important part of research at the Center.

The Center's technical staff assists with research on lakes and streams in Colorado. Field sampling is conducted throughout the year at sites along the Front Range and in Summit County. Analytical work is performed in the Center’s laboratory facilities (located in the CIRES building).

For students and professional research assistants, primary duties include preparation of samples and standards for laboratory analyses, operation of basic lab equipment (e.g., spectrophotometer, analytical balance), and data entry or other computer work. Other tasks may include sample collection from lakes and streams or maintenance/calibration of field equipment; days in the field can be long (>8hr). For students, full-time employment during summer is possible.

Lab/field assistants must 1) be enrolled as a student at CU or 2) hold a bachelor's degree in ecology or a related field. A valid driver’s license and a good driving record also are required for participation in field work. For students, eligibility for work-study aid is preferred but not required. These positions are intended for individuals with an interest in aquatic sciences and a desire for practical experience prior to graduate school or a professional position.

Postdoctoral opportunities
Postdoctoral scientists with the Center have worked on a variety of research topics, and sources of funding also are varied. The CIRES Visiting Fellows Program is one source of funding available to support postdoctoral research. Individuals who wish to seek their own support through the Visiting Fellows Program or through another program are encouraged to contact the associate director.

Other employment opportunities (not affiliated with the Center for Limnology)

• US Government, Office of Personnel Management (USA Jobs)
• American Society of Limnology and Oceanography
• American Fisheries Society
• North American Benthological Society
• Society of Wetland Scientists
• Ecological Society of America (Physioloigcal Ecology Section)
• Chronicle of Higher Education
• Science Magazine
• Colorado State University
• Texas A&M University

Collecting benthic macroinvertebrates on North St. Vrain Creek

Installing an anaemometer near Boulder Reservoir