Employer: Moira McCarthy (she/her), Dr. Grace Wilkinson (she/her)
Description:
We are looking for an enthusiastic undergraduate student to join a research community in northern Wisconsin this summer and help monitor and study three lakes (Peter, Paul, and Tuesday) with a rich history of whole-lake experiments. We spend large portions of our days on rowboats out on beautiful and remote lakes in the Northwoods! Our long-term study is called the Cascade Project because our group was the first to experimentally demonstrate trophic cascades using these lakes in the 1980s.
Housing will be provided at the CFL’s Trout Lake Station, with research taking place on lakes at the nearby University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center (UNDERC). This summer continues a multi-decade data collection effort on these lakes, including many whole-lake experiment years. The years between whole-lake manipulations are equally important to understand long-term ecological changes in these systems. In addition to conducting baseline monitoring on these three lakes, we will be taking greenhouse gas samples. Lakes contribute a disproportionately large amount of methane to the atmosphere, and we are trying to better understand these dynamics.
This position involves collecting weekly water samples, making profile measurements, and processing samples in the lab. The student in this position will pursue a guided independent research project on a relevant topic of their choice. Work will average ca. 40 hours per week, unevenly distributed over the summer.
Having students with different life experiences and backgrounds is critical to ensure the exchange of diverse ideas that is called for in training tomorrow’s scientists. Because we are actively working to increase diversity and inclusivity in our discipline, underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities:
- Assistance with regular water quality monitoring
- Collect and process water samples in the lab
- Provide field assistance with ongoing greenhouse gas research
- General lab work and support
- Basic data processing
Qualifications:
- Comfortable working in lakes and being in small boats
- Resourceful at problem solving
- Ability to work individually and under minimal supervision
- Willing to work in all safe weather conditions and occasional long, irregular hours
- Some laboratory experience preferred
- Valid driver’s license which meets UW Risk Management standards is required
Details:
- Number of positions: 1
- Start date: May 20, 2026
- End date: mid/late August 2026
- Pay: $14.50 no experience; $14.75 some experience; $15.00 very experienced
Location and Housing:
This position is located at the CFL’s Trout Lake Station in Boulder Junction, northern Wisconsin. Dormitory style housing (not food) is provided free of charge. Enjoy swimming, hiking, fishing, biking, and shoreline campfires while gaining valuable research experience!
While living at Trout Lake Station, we will primarily sample lakes located at the nearby University of Notre Dame Environmental Research Center (UNDERC), a pristine and unique property owned by the University of Notre Dame with 7500 acres of land and 30 lakes. With connections to both field stations, our position offers a unique chance to network with aquatic ecology professionals at both locations while enjoying the fun that both TLS and UNDERC have to offer!
How to Apply:
- Application link
- Priority consideration deadline: Feb 27th
- We accept applications until all positions are filled.
- Indicate preference for Long-term Limnology Field and Lab Technician on your application and contact Moira McCarthy if you have any questions.
The CFL is an equal opportunity employer and is dedicated to an inclusive and positive working environment for all.