Description The Department of Botany and Program in Environmental Studies at Connecticut College ... and research. The College seeks creative scholars excited about working in a liberal arts setting ...
Description The Department of Botany and Program in Environmental Studies at Connecticut College ... and research. The College seeks creative scholars excited about working in a liberal arts setting ...
Botany Research Assistant information
What does a botany research assistant do?
A Botany Research Assistant supports scientists and researchers in studying plants, their physiology, genetics, ecology, and interactions with the environment. Typical duties include collecting plant samples, preparing laboratory experiments, recording data, maintaining research equipment, and assisting with data analysis. They may also help with fieldwork, documentation, and literature reviews. This role is essential for advancing botanical research and often serves as a stepping stone for careers in plant science or related fields.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a botany research assistant, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Botany Research Assistant, you need a solid background in plant biology, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in botany or a related life science. Familiarity with research tools such as microscopes, PCR machines, and data analysis software like R or SPSS is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies are critical for ensuring accurate data collection, supporting research goals, and contributing to the success of scientific projects.
What are some typical challenges faced by a botany research assistant during fieldwork, and how are they managed?
Botany Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and the need for precise data collection while working in the field. Managing these challenges involves thorough preparation, including checking weather forecasts, bringing appropriate gear, and following safety protocols. Attention to detail is crucial, as accurate sample collection and data recording directly impact research outcomes. Teamwork and effective communication with lead researchers and peers also help in overcoming obstacles and ensuring successful field studies.
What is the difference between Botany Research Assistant vs Plant Biologist?
| Aspect | Botany Research Assistant | Plant Biologist |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's degree in botany, biology, or related field | Master's or Ph.D. in plant biology or related discipline |
| Work Environment | Laboratories, field research sites, botanical gardens | Research institutions, universities, laboratories |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Universities, government agencies, research labs | Academic, government, private sector research |
| Common Search & Comparison | Often compared for entry-level roles in plant research | More advanced, research-focused roles |
While both roles involve plant research, a Botany Research Assistant typically holds a bachelor's degree and supports research projects in labs or field settings. A Plant Biologist usually has advanced degrees and conducts independent research, often leading projects. The roles differ mainly in education level, scope of responsibilities, and research independence.
Visiting Assistant Professor- Botany & Environmental Studies
New London, CT • On-site
Full-time
Re-posted 27 days ago
Connecticut College rating
7.0
Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
415th of 629 rated colleges and universities
Job description
Description
The Department of Botany and Program in Environmental Studies at Connecticut College jointly seek applicants for the position of visiting assistant professor for the 2025-26 academic year. Teaching responsibilities will include a 200-level laboratory course in plant systematics (i.e., plant identification and the evolution of major plant groups) and a 100-level introductory course in environmental studies, broadly defined. This latter course may be a general introduction to environmental studies, or more narrowly defined based on the candidate's area of expertise. Additional upper-level undergraduate courses will be required to complete a 3:2 teaching load over the course of the academic year. The successful candidate should have a Ph.D. in biology, botany, environmental studies, environmental science or a closely related field. Prior teaching experience at the undergraduate level is strongly preferred. Applicants with expertise in plant ecology and environmental restoration are especially encouraged to apply. This is a benefits eligible position.
Relevant teaching resources at Connecticut College include a 3000-square-foot greenhouse and the Graves Herbarium, with over 15,000 curated plant specimens. The Connecticut College Arboretum, which includes the campus, is a 750-acre living laboratory with over 500 species of woody plants, a large native plant collection, wildflower garden, and over 200 acres of undisturbed natural areas including woodlands. The Thames River estuary is accessible via a newly revitalized waterfront and Mamacoke Island, which is attached to the mainland by a small tidal salt marsh.
We value the contributions visitors bring to our community and encourage their active engagement with their department or program and all aspects of campus life during the course of their appointment. Visiting faculty are eligible to be voting members of the faculty, and their presence is welcome at all faculty meetings.
To apply, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, graduate transcripts, statement of teaching philosophy, and three recent letters of recommendation. Review of applications will begin on March 15th and continue until the position is filled. Questions may be addressed to Rachel Spicer, chair of the Botany Department, at rspicer@conncoll.edu.
Connecticut College is a private, highly selective institution with a demonstrated commitment to outstanding faculty teaching and research. The College seeks creative scholars excited about working in a liberal arts setting, with its strong focus on engaged teaching, participation in shared governance, and active involvement in an institution-wide advancement of access and opportunity for all students, faculty, and staff.
Connecticut College is an equal opportunity employer. The College complies with all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances prohibiting discrimination in private post-secondary education institutions. The College does not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, student, or applicant for admission on the basis of the following protected characteristics: age, citizenship status, color, creed , disability (physical or mental) , domestic violence victim status, ethnicity, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information (including family medical history), lawful source of income, marital status, national origin (including ancestry), pregnancy or related conditions, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran or military status (including disabled veteran; recently separated veteran; active-duty, wartime, or campaign badge veteran; and Armed Forces Service Medal veteran), any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.
Currently, the College is not sponsoring visas for this position.
Effective June 8, 2023 Connecticut College no longer mandates the COVID-19 vaccine or boosters. The College strongly recommends that all students and employees be vaccinated and remain updated with their COVID-19 boosters.
The Department of Botany and Program in Environmental Studies at Connecticut College jointly seek applicants for the position of visiting assistant professor for the 2025-26 academic year. Teaching responsibilities will include a 200-level laboratory course in plant systematics (i.e., plant identification and the evolution of major plant groups) and a 100-level introductory course in environmental studies, broadly defined. This latter course may be a general introduction to environmental studies, or more narrowly defined based on the candidate's area of expertise. Additional upper-level undergraduate courses will be required to complete a 3:2 teaching load over the course of the academic year. The successful candidate should have a Ph.D. in biology, botany, environmental studies, environmental science or a closely related field. Prior teaching experience at the undergraduate level is strongly preferred. Applicants with expertise in plant ecology and environmental restoration are especially encouraged to apply. This is a benefits eligible position.
Relevant teaching resources at Connecticut College include a 3000-square-foot greenhouse and the Graves Herbarium, with over 15,000 curated plant specimens. The Connecticut College Arboretum, which includes the campus, is a 750-acre living laboratory with over 500 species of woody plants, a large native plant collection, wildflower garden, and over 200 acres of undisturbed natural areas including woodlands. The Thames River estuary is accessible via a newly revitalized waterfront and Mamacoke Island, which is attached to the mainland by a small tidal salt marsh.
We value the contributions visitors bring to our community and encourage their active engagement with their department or program and all aspects of campus life during the course of their appointment. Visiting faculty are eligible to be voting members of the faculty, and their presence is welcome at all faculty meetings.
To apply, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, graduate transcripts, statement of teaching philosophy, and three recent letters of recommendation. Review of applications will begin on March 15th and continue until the position is filled. Questions may be addressed to Rachel Spicer, chair of the Botany Department, at rspicer@conncoll.edu.
Connecticut College is a private, highly selective institution with a demonstrated commitment to outstanding faculty teaching and research. The College seeks creative scholars excited about working in a liberal arts setting, with its strong focus on engaged teaching, participation in shared governance, and active involvement in an institution-wide advancement of access and opportunity for all students, faculty, and staff.
Connecticut College is an equal opportunity employer. The College complies with all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances prohibiting discrimination in private post-secondary education institutions. The College does not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, student, or applicant for admission on the basis of the following protected characteristics: age, citizenship status, color, creed , disability (physical or mental) , domestic violence victim status, ethnicity, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information (including family medical history), lawful source of income, marital status, national origin (including ancestry), pregnancy or related conditions, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran or military status (including disabled veteran; recently separated veteran; active-duty, wartime, or campaign badge veteran; and Armed Forces Service Medal veteran), any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.
Currently, the College is not sponsoring visas for this position.
Effective June 8, 2023 Connecticut College no longer mandates the COVID-19 vaccine or boosters. The College strongly recommends that all students and employees be vaccinated and remain updated with their COVID-19 boosters.
What Connecticut College employees say
Pay
Hours and flexibility
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About Connecticut College
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Colleges, universities, and professional schools
Company size
501 - 1,000 Employees
Headquarters location
New London, CT, US
Year founded
1911