Assistant Researcher (0.625 FTE)

• (95%) Assisttheproject leadswithfieldworkprogram operations includingall travel arrangements field sampling samplepreparationand shipping for USGS analyses and sample preparation for in-house XRF analyses.
• (5%) Other duties as assigned.

Position Overview
The Science Outreach Manager of the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) at the University of Kansas (KU) invites applications for an Assistant Researcher. This position will support the work of the Critical Mineral Potential in Coal Mining Waste project led by Dr. Diana Ortega-Ariza and Dr. Blair Schneider. This position will be responsible for coordinating fieldwork sample collection sample processing and data analysis. This position will also be responsible for working with undergraduate students to support data analysis.

This is a one-year limited term position.

1. Travel up to 25 weeks per year to participate in fieldwork and other project-related activities.
2. Must have a current drivers license.
3. Perform physical tasks of the job duties either with or without reasonable accommodation to include but not limited to:
   • Stand climb balance stoop kneel crouch or crawl on uneven terrain.
   • Walk distances of 1 mile while carrying or pushing equipment.
   • Frequently lift and move up to 30 pounds.

1. Bachelors Degree in STEM or other related fields or High School diploma/GED and four years of related experience.
2. Minimum 1 year of relevant experience collecting data in the field.
3. Minimum of 1 year of relevant experience handling core samples for analysis and preparation.
4. Strong communication skills will be evaluated by application materials.
5. Proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite applications as evidenced by application materials.

1. Experience with organizing and coordinating fieldwork campaigns.
2. Experience with recording GPS data with a Trimble Catalyst D2 system and ArcGIS Field Mappers software.
3. Demonstrated record of successful performance in a team environment.
4. Experience working in remote field settings with limited communications and resources.

Contact Information to Applicants
For further technical information contact Blair Schneider at
For other HR information contact Annette Delaney at

Additional Candidate Instruction
A complete application will include the following items:

1. A cover letter explaining how you meet the required and preferred qualifications;
2. Resume;
3. A list of three (3) professional references.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For consideration please apply no later than the October 25 2026 deadline. Review begins October 26 2026.

Work Schedule
Work is during business hours 8-5 M-F. Field research hours will extend beyond business hours.

Disclaimer
The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race color ethnicity religion sex national origin age ancestry disability status as a veteran sexual orientation marital status parental status gender identity gender expression and genetic information in the universitys programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Room 1082 Dole Human Development Center 1000 Sunnyside Avenue Lawrence KSTTY.