Teaching Assistant(s) needed for a 10-week summer course at the University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center (UNDERC) in northern Wisconsin and the Michigan Upper Peninsula. This undergraduate course, Practicum in Environmental Field Biology, runs from 28 May through 3 August, 2025. The course includes both teaching and research components to educate ~12 undergraduate students. The teaching component is broken up into 4 week-long modules (Introduction to Field Research Skills, Vertebrate Ecology, Aquatic Ecology, and Forest Ecology), taught by instructors from the University of Notre Dame and other collaborating universities. In addition we’ll offer students an Introduction to NEON module, in collaboration with scientists from the National Ecological Observatory Network, housed at UNDERC. Students work with instructors and TAs to design and carry out summer-long group research projects. Students will also work with an Environmental Humanities/UNDERC Summer Writing Resident to improve and expand their expression of environmental science and natural history. We also have students conducting their own research projects in another course (Research Experience in Environmental Field Biology) who may need some advice and assistance from the teaching assistant. See UNDERC’s web page for specifics about the course: underc.nd.edu/education/
Duties. The TA will work to assist professors during each teaching module, as well as provide guidance on a daily basis to enrolled students. TA will also help students develop statistical ability and science communication skills, by helping lead a journal club where students will select and discuss current scientific literature. Additionally, TA will assist with the design and implementation of student group projects during the summer. These projects will be directed towards topics derived from each module. Finally, the TA will assist UNDERC staff with implementing a positive learning environment.
Compensation. Salary is negotiable, based on level of experience. Minimum $6000 for the class ($15/hour for 10 weeks). Modern apartment-style housing at UNDERC will be provided at no cost. Field vehicles provided throughout the course. Other amenities (24-hr computer lab, wireless internet access in apartments, free laundry facilities) are accessible on property.
Qualifications. Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences with a focus on Ecology or related fields is preferred. Basic knowledge of 4 modules (listed above) and univariate statistics preferred. Proficiency with the statistical program R preferable but not required. If applicable, please include a list of relevant coursework and research projects you have completed.
Please submit cover letter (including description of research interests and background), CV/resume, and the contact information for three references (e-mail submission preferred) to:
Dr. Michael J. Cramer
Assistant Director
Environmental Research Center
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN 46556
(574) 631-0970
Review of applications will begin 15 April, and continue until the position is filled.