About Company
Rivers State University is a premier institution dedicated to academic excellence, innovative research, and community engagement. With a strong commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering solutions to real-world challenges, our university plays a pivotal role in regional and national development. Our research initiatives span various disciplines, from environmental science and engineering to agriculture and social sciences, often extending beyond campus into relevant field sites. This commitment drives our search for passionate individuals eager to contribute to impactful research, particularly in areas critical to the sustainable development of the Niger Delta region. We foster a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment where curiosity is encouraged and groundbreaking discoveries are made.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our dynamic team, focusing on field-based and laboratory research projects primarily operating out of our Onne Field Research Centre. This role is crucial for supporting faculty and senior researchers in various ongoing studies, particularly those related to environmental monitoring, resource management, and socio-economic impact assessments within the Onne and wider Niger Delta area. The successful candidate will be instrumental in data collection, analysis, literature review, and the preparation of research reports and presentations. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual passionate about making tangible contributions to scientific understanding and sustainable development, working in a challenging yet rewarding field environment. You will gain invaluable experience in both academic and practical research methodologies, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and engaging directly with local communities and stakeholders. Your work will directly inform policy recommendations, contribute to academic publications, and significantly support the university’s mission of impactful, community-relevant research.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct fieldwork, including data collection, sampling, and surveys in various environmental and community settings around Onne.
- Assist in laboratory experiments, sample processing, and data analysis using relevant statistical software.
- Perform comprehensive literature reviews to support ongoing research projects and grant proposals.
- Maintain accurate and detailed research records, databases, and inventories of samples and equipment.
- Prepare preliminary research findings, reports, presentations, and contribute to manuscript preparation for publication.
- Operate and maintain research equipment, ensuring proper calibration and functionality.
- Adhere strictly to all safety protocols and ethical guidelines in both field and laboratory settings.
- Support administrative tasks related to research project management, including scheduling and logistics.
- Collaborate effectively with faculty, fellow researchers, students, and external partners to achieve project objectives.
Required Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing.
- Proficiency in data collection techniques and basic statistical analysis.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in challenging and remote field environments.
- Meticulous attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills.
- Familiarity with scientific research methodologies and ethical considerations.
- Competency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for data management and presentation.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, or a closely related scientific field.
- Previous experience (internship or employment) in field research, particularly in the Niger Delta region.
- Familiarity with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) for spatial data analysis and mapping.
- Experience with laboratory equipment and techniques relevant to environmental analysis (e.g., water quality, soil analysis).
- Knowledge of local languages/dialects relevant to the Onne area to facilitate community engagement.
Perks & Benefits
- Opportunity to contribute to impactful research with real-world applications and societal benefits.
- Access to state-of-the-art university research facilities and extensive resources.
- Robust professional development and continuous training opportunities.
- A highly collaborative and supportive work environment within an academic setting.
- Networking opportunities with leading researchers, industry experts, and community stakeholders.
- Comprehensive health insurance benefits.
- Subsidized staff accommodation (subject to availability and university policy).
How to Apply
Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please submit a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV), a detailed cover letter outlining your research interests and relevant experience, and contact information for two professional references. Ensure your cover letter clearly addresses how your skills, qualifications, and aspirations align with the requirements and objectives of this Research Assistant position. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our research team.