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Short-term Full-time Field or Research Positions
The following list contains a variety of short-term job offerings working as a field or research assistant. Some (but not all) require a BS or even an MS and often some experience - but it varies greatly. Most are during the summer months. They are great opportunities for furthering your experience, or exploring a particular area of study. Dates in parentheses are the application deadlines.
Posted 2/14/11:
Forest Ecology Research Technicians in N Carolina
Aquatic Ecology Summer Research Assistant at Michigan State University
Research Assistant positions at Rocky Mountain Research Station
Research Assistant in tick-borne diseases, at Bard College
Avian Research Assistant in Grand Teton National Park
Botanical Garden Assistant at Highlands Biological Station in NC
Posted 1/18/2011:
Invasive Plant / Rare Plant field internships in Rhode Island
Piping Plover internships in Rhode Island
Salt-marsh / Bird-banding field internships in Rhode Island
Flora of Pennsylvania one year internship (2/15/11)
Disease Ecology and Evolution Project Assistant at UPenn (2/10/11)
Field and lab asst in pollination ecology @ UC-Davis (1/31/11)
Field technician in herpetology in Florida
Field botanists in Modoc Natl Forest in CA (2/28/11)
Field research assistant in honeybee productivity in Mississippi (2/10/11)
Field assistant for wildlife project in Peruvian rainforest
Field assistant in avian monitoring program in Maryland (2/18/11)
Posted 10/25/10 :
Volunteer Internships at Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences
Posted 3/31/10:
Field Technicians at Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska (4/4/10)
Summer Nature Conservancy Outreach Interns (Job ID 11917), MA (4/16/10)
Posted 2/16/10:
Ecology Research Technician, Cedar Creek Ecosystem Reserve, MN
Organic Garden Project at Camp Emerald Bay on Catalina Island
Marine Science Education Intern at Camp Emerald Bay on Catalina Island (3/12/10)
Aquarist Intern at Camp Emerald Island on Catalina Island (3/12/10)
Amphibian Disease Ecology field research, California
Amphibian Conservation field research, Colorado
Yosemite National Park forest research
Conservation and Land Management Internship Program
Plant Ecology Lab/Field Technician, Rice University
Posted 2/12/10:
Seasonal Beach Nesting Bird Steward, Monmouth Cty, NJ
Migratory Shorebird Steward - Cape May Cty, NJ
Seasonal Field Assistants, Beach Nesting Bird Project, coastal NJ
Great Basin Ecosystem Mgmt Project, Rocky Mtn Research Station
Tropical Forest Ecology Field Research Internship - Guam (2/22/10)
Comparative Anumal Nutrition Internship - Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago (3/31/10)
Forest Monitoring Technicians, National Park Service
Ecology Educators, Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Research Tech, plant-herbivore interactions, Florida State Univ (2/22/10)
Forest Ecology Research Technicians, Clark Lab, Duke University
Summer Forest and Botany Techs, Isle Royale
Posted 2/2/10:
Field Botanist in Morgantown, WV (3/8/10)
Forest Ecology Research Internships
Tug Hill Invasive Plants Inventory Seasonal Field Staff, Pulaski, NY (2/25/10)
Migratory Bird Stopover Habitat Technician, Rochester, NY (2/23/10)
Invasive Species Control Technician, Sandy Creek, NY (2/23/10)
Invasive Species Crew Boss, Sandy Creek, NY (2/23/10)
Summer Forest and Botany Technicians, Lake Superior, Michigan
Posted 12/9/09:
Conservation and Land Management Internship Program
Positions posted in spring of 2009:
Field Assistant working with desert fishes in New Mexico
Field Assistant working with plant reproduction in Nebraska
Field Assistants working with Sea Turtles in Central America
Field Assistant/ Agroecologist working in Southern Ethiopia
Research Technician in evolutionary ecology in plants at Univ of Georgia
Research Assistant in marine ecology (barnacles and mussels) in Oregon
Field Assistant in salt march ecology at Marine Biological Lab, Massachusetts
Research Assistant in plant ecology in New Orleans, LA
Research Assistant in freshwater mussel parasites and disease in Alabama
Field Technician in desert of New Mexico
BOTANICAL GARDEN ASSISTANT - HIGHLANDS BIOLOGICAL STATION
Summer Employment Opportunities at the Highlands Botanical Garden Botanical as Garden Assistants. Wage: $290 / week, free group housing, and possible college internship credit. Hours: Full-time, temporary (40 hours per week, no overtime or benefits available), position is from mid-May through mid-August, but specific dates can be somewhat flexible.
Description: Botanical Garden Assistants maintain gardens, trails, boardwalks, and bridges throughout the Station, and helps to identify, label, and maintain native plant species. This position may include working with the public to interpret the natural history of local plants and assisting with identification of native plant species. This job may involve heavy lifting (no more than 50 lbs.) and will sometimes involve working alone and in rainy weather. Occasionally, the individual will be asked to assist other Station employees in the office, library, or Nature Center. The successful applicant must be able to trim, cut, and pile brush; use a shovel, hoe, wheel barrow, and other garden tools; to do general gardening and trail repairs; help with mowing and other lawn maintenance on the campus; learn to identify wildflowers; collect and mount plant specimens; learn to make plant labels; and help researchers as required.
Qualifications: Applicants should be majors (or recent graduates) in biology, botany, horticulture, or some other environmental science. The ideal candidate should have training and/or experience in field botany and landscaping, and good skills in dealing with people. Familiarity with southern Appalachian plant species and with horticultural practices is desirable. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and have a valid driver’s license. Non-smokers are preferred.
To apply: A State of North Carolina job application (PD107) MUST be completed (available on website). Send application, cover letter, and a list of 3 references to Cyndi Banks, Highlands Biological Station, 265 N. Sixth Street, Highlands NC 28741. Applications must be received by March 30, 2011. For more information, please call 828-526-0188 or visit www.wcu.edu/hbs.
Avian Research Assistant in Grand Teton National Park
AVIAN FIELD ASSISTANT needed for study in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, from approximately June 1 - July 24, 2011. We are looking for a highly motivated volunteer field assistant to help with a study on multimodal communication in the dark-eyed junco.
Applicants must be very enthusiastic about fieldwork and animal behavior, able to work well with others, and willing to work long hours, including early mornings, six days a week. Applicants must be in good physical condition and have a tolerance for high elevation weather conditions (hot days, cold nights) as the work involves carrying equipment and hiking, sometimes over rough terrain at elevation. Duties will include behavioral observation, nest searching, identification of color-banded birds, capturing and sampling birds using mist-nets and walk-in traps, song recording, video recording, and assisting with radiotelemetry. Previous experience in one or more of these areas is strongly preferred, but not required. Potential for designing an independent research project not pertaining to the main project goals is negotiable. Housing and food will be provided. Further stipend support contingent on pending grants.
To apply, please email a CV, statement of interest and experience, and contact information for three references to Danielle Whittaker (djwhitta@msu.edu) and Dustin Reichard (dgreicha@indiana.edu). Review of applications will begin March 1, 2011 and continue until the position is filled. Please do not hesitate to contact in advance of application with questions! --
Research Assistant: Ecology of tick-borne diseases
The Biology Program at Bard College is seeking a highly motivated individual for a full-time Research Assistant position. The successful candidate will be joining a multidisciplinary group studying ecological factors affecting transmission of emerging tick-borne infectious diseases. Duties include high throughput screening of ticks for the presence of pathogens using real-time PCR, ordering of supplies, and management of a large database.
The successful candidate will have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in biology or a related discipline and a strong interest in disease ecology. Experience with DNA extractions and PCR preferred, but not required. Candidates should be capable of working independently, have exceptional organizational skills and meticulous work habits in the laboratory, and enjoy working as an integral part of a diverse team of scientists and public health professionals.
Please send cover letter with resume and list of three references by email only to hr11002@bard.edu <mailto: hr11002@bard.edu > (Word or PDF attachments only). Review of applicants will begin immediately. Bard College is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals who contribute to its diversity.
RESEARCH ASSISTANT POSITIONS USDA Forest Service - Rocky Mountain Research Station
Research assistants are needed for lab work and field work looking at invasive species and fire ecology studies of the Reno Great Basin Ecology Laboratory thorugh the University of Nevada, Reno. Work includes collecting field data and laboratory processing of collected materials and data entry. You may be eligible for academic credit—talk to your advisor.
Hours: Full time (40 hrs/wk) from mid/late May until classes resume at the end of August. Part time after this period. Pay: $10.50 - $15.50/hr depending on education and experience.
Qualifications: • Ability to do strenuous activity outdoors under all weather conditions • Interest in working with plants and soils. • Familiarity with plant and soil lab processing techniques (training provided). • Computer skills, especially MS Excel. •
Send Cover letter, Resume, Contact information for three references and transcripts (Unofficial-OK) to David Board Contact: David Board, Ecologist dboard@fs.fed.us Forest Service, RMRS 920 Valley Rd., Rm. 5 Reno, NV 89512 775.784.5329
Summer Research Assistant Position in Aquatic Ecology at Michigan State
We seek a student that will be involved in an aquatic ecology project in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University. We are examining how the invasive spiny water flea, Bythotrephes, is affecting Lake Michigan food webs. In particular, we are examining how Bythotrephes affects the behavior and growth of their zooplankton prey, and how this indirectly affects fish.
The position will be based at the Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab's Lake Michigan Field Station (in Muskegon Michigan). Field sample collection, laboratory experiments, and laboratory analysis will compose the bulk of the responsibilities. Experience spending time on boats is highly desirable. The assistants will work closely with Scott Peacor (Professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at MSU), Paul Bourdeau (a post-doctoral research scientist), and other undergraduate assistants. There is potential for the position to extend into September and October. Please contact Paul Bourdeau (bourdea7@msu.edu) for inquiries (include a CV with inquiries).
To apply, please send a CV (that includes your GPA and references) and a cover letter that includes student status (e.g. sophomore, graduate). If there is a possibility that you could work in the fall (full time), please mention this (thought this is not necessary for application). Title: Research Assistant Hours: Full-time Position dates: June through August 2011 (with possible extension to Fall) Location: NOAA Lake Michigan Field Station, Muskegon, MI Deadline: Position to be filled by March 1 or until suitable candidate is found
Research Technicians: Forest Ecology
The Clark Lab (of Duke University) is seeking up to 6 technicians for the 2011 field season. Hiring will take place in two waves. Up to two will be hired as early as February/March, while the remainder will be hired in May/June. The Clark Lab is based in the Nicholas School of the Environment and the department of Biology at Duke University, an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We study forest community ecology; our current research focuses on forest plant demography and phenology, plant-insect and plant-fungal interactions, and responses to disturbance and climate change. Our research sites are located in North Carolina, in the Duke Forest and at Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory in the southern Appalachians.
We want people with a strong interest in ecology and a willingness to work outdoors in hot, humid conditions with abundant insects, ticks, and chiggers. Knowledge of the natural history of eastern forests and experience using spreadsheet programs are beneficial, but not required. Duties include, but are not limited to, the following: 1) Collect data on germination, survival, growth, and phenology of seedlings 2) Inventory trees within forested study plots 3) Help maintain experiment infrastructure, including a set of open-topped warming chambers, an extensive network of environmental sensors, and sap flux probes 4) Download environmental data from data loggers and transfer it to our lab servers 5) Take and analyze hemispherical photographs of forest canopies.
These are full-time (40 hours/week) temporary positions without benefits. They are scheduled to last through August, with some possibility of extension. Compensation is $10.00/hour. Regular eight-hour days are the norm, but occasionally work in the early morning or late evening will be required (canopy photos). Housing and transportation are provided for any trips to the Coweeta site, although the extent to which that will be necessary this year has yet to be determined.
Duke University is located in Durham, North Carolina. Successful applicants will need to secure housing in the Durham/Research Triangle area. Please submit application materials (resume and a one-page cover letter) via e-mail to Ben Vierra (ben.vierra@duke.edu). Be sure to mention earliest possible start date in the cover letter. Clark Lab website (undergoing renovation): www.nicholas.duke.edu/people/faculty/clark Cordially, Ben Vierra Lab Manager Clark Lab, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University ben.vierra@duke.edu
Invasive Plant / Rare Plant internships
Rhode Island’s 400 miles of coastline include coastal wildlife habitat as well as public beaches, walking trails, shoreline cliffs, and historical lighthouses. New England’s coastal habitat currently faces a number of threats including aggressive exotic invasive plant species.
Interns will carry out much needed control of invasive plants threatening coastal shrub- scrub and salt-marsh habitat, which are critical to migrating and breeding birds, as well as other species of wildlife. Control methods include hand- pulling, herbicide application, and cutting and digging with hand tools. Duties also include conducting annual monitoring of rare plants such as Agalinis acuta (sandplain gerardia) and Platanthera ciliaris (yellow- fringed orchid), and habitat mapping using GPS technology.
Applicants must possess excellent field botany skills, and have the ability to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions, especially heat and humidity, endure biting insects, and to work well with others. Additionally, applicants must have the physical ability to hike while carrying tools and bagged plants, and possess a valid driver’s license. Experience using GPS units is a plus. Two positions available from May 23 to August 19. Compensation $215/wk plus housing. Send letter of interest, resume and contact information for 3 references to Rhonda Smith, 50 Bend Road, Charlestown, RI 02813 OR email materials to Rhonda_Smith@fws.gov
Three interns are needed to work as part of the Piping Plover recovery project with the USFWS in Rhode Island. This project monitors federally protected Piping Plovers, state protected Least Terns, and species of concern American Oystercatchers on federal, state, and private property in southern Rhode Island. The majority of the work will be done outdoors monitoring these species during the nesting season.
Duties include erecting nest exclosures, educating the public, monitoring plover pairs and chicks, and recording data. Applicants must be in good physical shape and able to hike long distances. Work will include weekends and holidays. Previous birding experience and a valid US driver's license are required.
Position extends from April 18 - August 13 2011 (flexible). Salary $215/week + housing. Send letter of interest, resume and contact information for 3 references to Erin King, 50 Bend Road, Charlestown, RI 02813 OR email materials to Erin_King@fws.gov
Salt marsh bird bander and technician
The University of Rhode Island is seeking an individual to assist in a collaborative project with the RI National Wildlife Refuge Complex in monitoring salt-marsh breeding birds and overall salt-marsh ecological integrity. Responsibilities include leading a 2-person crew to carry out Saltmarsh Sparrow mist-netting and banding, nest searching and monitoring and conducting secretive marshbird surveys.
Applicants must possess the ability to identify eastern birds by sight and sound; to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions, especially heat and humidity; to endure biting insects; to work well with others; and to hike over uneven terrain while carrying equipment. Applicants also must possess a valid driver’s license and be willing to assist with other refuge projects such as invasive plant eradication, water quality sampling, and plover program needs. Must have prior experience mist-netting songbirds and conducting point counts.
Position available May 23 - August 19. Salary $2000/month + housing. Send letter of interest, resume and contact information for 3 references by February 11 to Rhonda Smith, 50 Bend Road, Charlestown, RI 02813 OR email materials to Rhonda_SmithATfws.gov
Flora of Pennsylvania Internship
A one-year internship is being offered, beginning June 2011, with six hours of graduate credit at the University of Pennsylvania. Location Time is split between the Botany Departments of the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania and the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. The Morris Arboretum is located in northwest Philadelphia. Facilities include botanical laboratories, greenhouses, and an extensive outdoor living collection of trees and shrubs. The Academy of Natural Sciences, in Center City Philadelphia, is the oldest natural history museum in the United States, including a herbarium of more than 1.5 million specimens. Facilities available at the Academy of Natural Sciences include the Laboratory for Molecular Systematics & Ecology.
The Intern will work under the supervision of Dr. Tatyana Livshultz at the Academy of Natural Sciences and Drs. Timothy A. Block and Ann F. Rhoads at Morris Arboretum. Internship Duties The internship provides work experience in all aspects of managing collections in a major herbarium and an opportunity to contribute to a modern state flora program through a research project on some aspect of the flora of Pennsylvania. Duties include curation of botanical collections at The Academy of Natural Sciences (www.ansp.org), and participation in the Pennsylvania Flora Project at the Morris Arboretum (www.paflora.org).
As a member of the internship group at the Morris Arboretum, the Pennsylvania Flora Intern will participate in workshops, seminars, and field trips designed to demonstrate the varied aspects of management and operation of a public garden. The appointment includes a stipend plus University of Pennsylvania benefits package, including medical and dental insurance, two weeks paid vacation, sick leave, and tuition coverage for an additional 6 graduate credit hours.
Requirements: Applicants should have an undergraduate degree in botany, or biology with course work in botany.
To Apply: All applicants must complete the Penn online application process. Go to www.hr.upenn.edu/Jobs/Default.aspx. Click on the link to staff positions. Click on the Search Postings button in the left column. In the school/center box, select Morris Arboretum. Select Pennsylvania Flora Internship from the list of openings. Follow the instructions to complete the application. Print and sign a copy of the completed application and send to the address below. Also, send a letter of application including statement of interest in the internship, official college transcript(s), and have three letters of recommendation sent to: Pennsylvania Flora Internship Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania 100 East Northwestern Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19118
DEADLINE Feb. 15, 2011
Disease Ecology and Evolution Project Assistants
The University of Pennsylvania is seeking full-time Project Assistants (paid) for research on the ecology and evolution of the Lyme disease bacterium in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Research in the Brisson laboratory focuses on the evolving interactions among bacteria, ticks, and animal hosts, that influence Lyme disease prevalence.
Duties include live-trapping small mammals and birds and sampling tick abundance to assess infection status. Early morning, moderately strenuous activity is required. Field research is conducted in small teams in Crow’s Nest Preserve, PA – about 45 minutes west of Philadelphia. Prior experience handling wild small mammals or birds is highly desirable; strong work ethic, meticulousness, and ability to work both independently and in small teams is required. The project offers research and learning experiences for Project Assistants, particularly with regard to the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases.
Desired dates of employment (35 hours/week): April 11 to September 11, 2011, although applicants available during summer break from college are also welcome. Wage is commensurate with education experience. Near-site housing is available. Consideration of applications will begin on Feb 10th. Please submit via email a brief letter of application, a resume, and 2-3 letters of recommendation from three professional supervisors or academic instructors to: Dustin Brisson dbrisson@sas.upenn.edu
Full time-temporary field and lab assistant positions in pollination ecology
Several full time-limited term field assistant/research technician positions working on native bees, habitat restoration and pollination as an ecosystem service are available in Neal Williams’ lab at UC Davis. [Note: TCNJ's Dr. Janet Morrison knows Neal Williams] Assistants will provide support to several projects relating to pollinator biodiversity, pollination service in agricultural landscapes, and the effectiveness of pollinator habitat restoration techniques. These projects are part of multi-region efforts to promote native bee populations and pollination service. This work provides an excellent opportunity to develop skills in native plant restoration, bee biology, and sustainable agriculture. Our lab is part of a vibrant ecology and entomology group at UC Davis. http://polleneaters.wordpress.com/ or link through http://entomology.ucdavis.edu/faculty/nealwilliams.cfm
April-September: 2 positions. Assist with monitoring the establishment of native wildflower restorations designed to bolster pollinators and pollination service. Observe and collect native bee visitors on wildflower plantings and crops to quantify the functioning of the plantings. (Based at UC Davis with some overnight travel throughout the State)
Mid May-August: 2-3 positions. Assist with study on the effects of native bee biodiversity on pollination of watermelon in central California. (Based at UC–Davis) Major responsibilities: In the field, assistants will survey bees and other flower-visiting insects, monitor establishment of native plants in experimental wildflower strips, in associated crop fields, and in established restoration sites throughout California. Although all are based at UC-Davis, some positions will require up to 50% out-of-town travel to complete field work. In the lab, assistants will curate insect and plant specimens collected in the field, process pollination data using microscopy, and assist with data entry and GIS analysis.
Skills and Qualifications: • Strong interest in conservation biology, pollination biology, entomology and/or field ecology • Attention to detail (will be collecting and working with original data from multiple projects) • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a research environment • Previous field experience (preferably with native bees) • Basic computer skills (Word, Excel) • Basic wet lab skills, microscopy • Valid driver’s license • Ability to work in the field under hot sunny conditions for long hours • Completed, or working toward a degree in biology or related field (ecology, insect conservation, plant biology)
Additional Desired Qualifications: • Knowledge of California Flora • Experience with/Knowledge of Bees • Interest in graduate work in ecology, evolution, conservation • Basic facility with ArcGIS • Personal car (mileage will be reimbursed at established federal grant rate).
Application requirements: Review of applications will begin on January 31 and continue until positions are filled. Please submit a cover letter briefly detailing relevant interest and experience, CV and a list of 3 references who are familiar with your scholarship, research ability, experience and potential. You must indicate in the cover letter the date of your availability and the positions of interest to you. Only applications including a cover letter will be considered. Applications should be emailed to Kimiora Ward directly (kiward [at] ucdavis.edu), however the positions will be posted shortly through UC-Davis and you will need to apply through the UC Employment website: https://www.employment.ucdavis.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1267036079484
Field Technician in herpetology in Florida
One or two assistants are needed to accompany me to Eastpoint, FL to conduct fieldwork. My research focuses on various aspects of acoustic communication in local treefrog species. This is an unpaid position, but housing and transportation within Eastpoint will be covered.
Requirements: Valid driver's license and an interest in field biology and/or herpetology.
Time: Field work will begin in early/mid May and will end in mid-July. Applicants must be available for the duration of this time period.
Responsibilities: Assist me with nightly animal collection in the Apalachicola National Forest, behavioral testing in the field and lab, and relevant data analysis. This is an excellent opportunity for a promising student with an interest in animal behavior or field biology. Field experience is preferred, but not required.
Please send a cover letter expressing your interest in the position, and describe any field experience, a resume, and the names and email addresses of at least 2 references to Jessica Wood (jawfz2@mail.missouri.edu). Please put FL field technician in the subject line.
Field Botanists in Modoc National Forest
The Modoc National Forest is looking for up to 4 qualified field botanists and 2 weed crew members for summer 2011. The employment extends from May through September (start and end dates are flexible). The positions are based out of the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Alturas, CA, and will work throughout the 1.6 million acre forest. Plant habitats include red fir, whitebark pine, and mixed conifer forests; pumice flats; sagebrush and juniper covered lava flows; vernal pools; and fens. Excellent opportunity to learn a diverse flora from Modoc Plateau, Great Basin, and Southern Cascades floristic provinces. Over 1200 plant species occur on the Forest, including 2 federally listed, 27 sensitive, and 55 watch list species.
Job descriptions and Qualifications:
Botany Surveying (GS-5, $15.00/hour):
Botanists conduct field surveys for threatened, endangered, sensitive, and watch list plants. Surveys require documenting locations using GPS and topographic maps, and maintaining field records.
Desired Skills: Must be able to identify plants to species using dichotomous keys, and have completed a plant taxonomy or systematics course. Familiarity with California or Great Basin flora a plus. Must be able to navigate cross-country using map and compass. GPS and GIS skills are helpful. Must be physically able to work long days in rough terrain, walking 5-10 miles per day.
Weed Crew (GS-4, $13.41/hour):
Weed crews locate and manually remove invasive Plants, document weed locations using GPS and topographic maps, and maintain field records of treatments.
Desired Skills: Ability to identify plants, and to perform strenuous physical labor in hot weather conditions and rough terrain. GPS, GIS and navigational skills are helpful.
Basic Qualifications: • GS-4: Minimum 2 years college with 12 semester hours of science/technical courses, or 6 months general experience plus 6 months specialized experience at GS-3 level. • GS-5: Bachelor’s degree with 24 semester hours of science/technical courses, or 1 year specialized experience at GS-4 level, or a combination of education and experience. • Over 18 years of age, and a U.S. Citizen
To Apply: Apply through the automated Forest Service job application site, AVUE: https://www.avuedigitalservices.com/usfs/applicant.html For Botany Surveying Positions, apply for: Biological Science Technician (Plants): OCRT-404-5-PLANT-DT For Weed Crew Positions, apply for: Biological Science Technician (Plants): OCRT-404-4-PLANT-DT NOTE: You must list Alturas, CA as one of your top nine location choices to be considered for these positions. Please attach college transcripts when applying. For more information contact: Judy Perkins, Forest Botanist, Modoc National Forest, 800 W. 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101; jperkins@fs.fed.us; (530) 233-8827. APPLICATION DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 28, 2011
Pollinator Partnership Internship Opportunity
Field Research Assistant for study of honey bee vigor and floral community assessment on managed timberlands in Southern Mississippi. The Pollinator Partnership (www.pollinator.org) has two internship positions available for part-time field data collection starting February 2011 through to December 2011.
Internship Description: Project interns will make monthly trips to the site to check on the status of honey bee hives and to assess changes in the floral community. An automated honey bee hive data collection program is being installed on timberlands to monitor productivity within different land management techniques. Some overnight stays many be necessary. The internship pays 80 dollars/day plus some expenses. Between 2 to 3 days of work per month will be required. Site location: Hancock County, Mississippi – (near Stennis Space Center, aprox 60 miles from New Orleans; 30 miles from Gulfport) A background in biology/botany is required. Training will be provided for project specific activities.
Duties will include: • Conducting pollination service experiments (bagging studies) • Floral landscape assessments • Data downloads from automatic data loggers in the field • Collection of honey and pollen combs from hives (working with a local beekeeper) • Bee foraging data collection Candidates must be able to/comfortable with: • Have a valid driver’s license, access to a car preferred • Work in a forest setting • Work near honey bee hives • Have botanical and/or biological knowledge • Be precise in measurement and protocol Monthly field visits will be timed based on optimum weather conditions.
Interested candidates should contact Victoria Wojcik at vw@pollinator.org (415) 362-1137 and provide a resume and cover letter outlining: • qualifications • relevant skills • general interested in pollinator ecology • geographic location
Application Deadline: February 10th, 2011. Successful candidates should be prepared to meet with project partners in early March. The Pollinator Partnership is a nonprofit based in San Francisco, California, with international projects in pollinator conservation spanning habitat development, academic research, corporation and industry best practice development, and policy initiatives.
Field assistant for wildlife project in Peruvian rain forest:
Asociacion Fauna Forever seeks enthusiastic, environmentally-minded volunteer field assistants and student interns willing to get their hands dirty, and their field research skills enhanced, while experiencing a remote corner of the upper Amazon wilderness in Peru.
The Asociacion Fauna Forever is a Peruvian not-for-profit organization that manages a series of research, training and conservation projects in the Tambopata rainforest region in south-eastern Peru. Since 1997, we have been studying the population ecology of Neotropical mammal, bird, amphibian, reptile and insect species at multiple locations in and around two important protected areas of largely old-growth, lowland rainforest.
Our principal research project is called Fauna Forever Tambopata (FFT). Successful applicants can join our mixed, international team of biologists and environmental economists for periods of 20 days or more, of which at least 17 days are spent in the forest. All methodological and health-and-safety training is provided on-site, though some knowledge of ecology and outdoor skills (hiking, camping) would be an advantage. The project languages are English and Spanish. Spanish classes can be arranged for those people interested in spending longer in the region - particularly useful for our interns.
We do ask that successful applicants cover their in-country costs, including training, accommodation, food, and local transport. These costs have purposely been kept to a minimum. Accommodation ranges from high quality ecolodges and biological research stations, to local home-stays and remote campsites. All sites are accessed by boat. Please review the Fauna Forever Tambopata project website (http://www.faunaforever.org/fft/volunteer.html) for further details about the research we undertake, the research teams, the wildlife species that inspire us, the locations that we study, and for details on how to apply.
For those undergraduate and postgraduate students interested in carrying out their own field research in Tambopata, we would be keen to receive and review your research proposals, and in the absence of these we can suggest several worthwhile research topics that could be pursued. We can provide professional, on-site supervision and feedback when necessary.
For further information, please contact Chris Kirkby and David Johnston at: info@faunaforever.org
CHRIS KIRKBY, Asociacion Fauna Forever, PO Box 103, Carretera Tambopata Km 1.5 Puerto Maldonado Madre de Dios, PERU
Tel/Cel: +51 (0)1 2715697 / +51 993915158
E-mails: chris@faunaforever.org, chris_kirkby@yahoo.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/FaunaForever
Twitter: http://twitter.com/faunaforever
Biology Technicians at USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Laurel, Maryland
Two full-time temporary student contractors are needed to assist with the North American Breeding Bird Survey program (www.pwrc.usgs.gov/BBS), a long-term, continental avian monitoring program. Tasks will include working with wildlife survey data, performance of quality assurance and quality control procedures on biological data, data entry, assisting with database management, photocopying and filing, preparation of maps and assisting in preparation of administrative correspondence.
Application deadline: submit their resume and cover letter by February 18, 2011.
Statement of Work
1. Types of services required:
During the spring field season, approximately 3000 BBS routes are sampled by participants skilled in avian identification. These data are then processed and analyzed by USGS to inform avian conservation efforts in the U.S. and Canada. Tasks will include processing incoming data and materials, performing data entry and quality control procedures using web-based and Teleform OCR technologies, tracking progress, assisting with database management, photocopying, scanning and filing materials, map preparation, and corresponding with participants.
2. Required expertise/skills:
a. Applicants are required to have completed two years of undergraduate course work (student must be at least a second semester sophomore).
b. Applicants must be majors in Biology, Wildlife Management, Environmental Science, or similar field.
c. Applicants must be able to communicate effectively in English both verbally and in writing.
d. Applicants must have knowledge of computer software used to summarize and visualize data (i.e. Excel and Access), with an interest in learning more.
e. Knowledge of the distributions and natural histories of North American birds is not required, but considered a plus.
3. Eligibility requirements:
To be eligible for a student contract position, applicants must be either a currently enrolled student or a recent graduate. To qualify as a student, the applicant must be enrolled at least half-time in a degree-seeking program at an accredited college or university. Former students who graduated more than 12 months ago or who left school without graduating are not eligible to work under these contracts. Applicants will be required to show proof of their student status (or recent graduation). USGS employees, their spouses, and children are not eligible to participate in this program. U.S. citizens are eligible. Non-U.S. citizens may be eligible to participate, depending on their immigration status and the applicable regulations of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (formerly Immigration and Naturalization Service). Foreign students in the U.S. under F-1 visas are usually not able to participate in this program, due to USCIS restrictions on off-campus work.
4. Description of working conditions:
Work will be performed in an office environment located on the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center campus in Laurel, Maryland. Extended periods of computer use will be required. This is not a field or laboratory position.
5. Compensation:
The student contractor will be paid $13.98 per hour. Student contractors are paid only for hours worked (no holiday or leave benefits). Student is responsible for all costs of transportation to and from the principal duty station location. The Government does not provide housing, meals or other living expenses while working at the principal duty station. Travel away from the duty station is not expected.
6. Principal Duty Station:
USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, 12100 Beech Forest Road, Laurel, Maryland 20708-4038. Student contractors may enter the building only during business hours or when project manager is present.
7. Additional information:
Number of students required is one. Estimated number of hours for the position is 544 (full-time for summer). There is a possibility of additional part-time hours continuing into the fall semester. The approximate start date is May 23, 2010. The approximate end date is August 26, 2010. There is flexibility in start and end dates to accommodate variations in academic calendars.
8. How to apply:
Send resume and cover letter to Keith Pardieck via email (kpardieck@usgs.gov). Applications must be received on or before February 18, 2011. In your cover letter include an explanation of how you meet the eligibility requirements, your expected graduation date, and discuss your experience as related to sections 1 and 2 above.
Field Assistant working with desert fishes in New Mexico
For this project working on desert fishes in the Southwest (primarily in western New Mexico) the ideal candidate will have experience with standard techniques in stream ecology and with living and working under rugged outdoor conditions, but more important is enthusiasm, creativity and flexibility, and a strong work ethic.
The work will start May 30-June 1 and likely end by the beginning of August. All living expenses will be covered (food, housing), and transportation up to $800 but there is no stipend available. The work will involve living at a remote field site for most of the summer, and tasks will include: electrofishing, tagging fish with PIT tags and tracking them, measuring primary production/algal standing stocks/benthic organic matter, and building in-stream enclosures/exclosures. Lots of long days and sometimes tedious work, but I can guarantee it will be in a beautiful place, with cool fish, and likely the opportunity to do a small side project.
Much more information available on request. Please contact Mike Booth at mike.booth@cornell.edu or 607.244.4075 with a CV and at least 2 references.
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Field Assistant working with plant reproduction in Nebraska
We have an immediate opening for a field assistant to work on plant
reproduction and insect herbivory in the Nebraska Sandhills. Duties
will include setting up and monitoring experiments, and some handiness with tools. Knowledge of plants, insects, or tools is advantageous but not required; however, applicants must be able to walk long distances and manage early mornings and some heavy lifting.
Salary is $1600/month for three months, and room and board is provided at Cedar Point Biological Station in Ogallala, NE. If you are interested, please send a letter of interest and CV to westn@bigred.unl.edu.
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Field Assistants working with Sea Turtles in Central America
The Osa Sea Turtle Program has been developing regional sea turtle protection, conservation and research activities focusing on the nesting beaches in costa Rica, which will result in the gathering of baseline information to contribute to the local, regional, and global study of populations of olive ridley, Pacific green, and leatherback sea turtles.
The Field Assistant is responsible for heading, coordinating and monitoring the efforts of the volunteers in protecting the sea turtles, and ensuring that data collected in entered into the computer database.
Field Assistant Requirements: • Must commit to working at least one of the terms: June 15 - Sept 15 or Sept 15 - Dec 15 • Must be at least 18 years old • Must at least have some field work experience • Must have two recommendation letters • English and Spanish skills are helpful • Must be able to work well with others • Must be in good physical condition and be able to work in tropical climatic conditions (rain, humidity, insects) • Must fill out and send the application form (www.osaseaturtles.org) • Must have a passion and determination to work with sea turtles. • Have a personal insurance policy.
Field Assistant Benefits/Costs Room and board are covered while living at the field station. Field Assistants are responsible for transportation and enrollment fee of US $35. Field Assistant Application Information: 1. Letter indicating why you are interested in the position and personal strong points. 2. CV/Resume 3. Application Form (www.osaseaturtles.org) 4. Email addresses of two references.
Send all items to Lia Yohannes, Project Field Coordinator, lia@osaseaturtles.org and info@osaseaturtles.org For more information visit: www.osaseaturtles.org
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Field Assistant/ Agroecologist working in Southern Ethiopia
This position is for one full-time plant ecologist to assist in a doctoral research project on population structures of crop and tree species in a remote agricultural ecosystem in southern Ethiopia. The Gamo Highlands are located in a remote mountain range rising out of the Ethiopian Rift Valley to elevations over 4500m, and are the home of one of the planet's most ancient and diverse subsistence agricultural systems. The goal of the project is to identify barriers to/pathways for gene flow in key species that may affect both the potential for ongoing evolutionary processes and the ability of farmers to adapt their cultivation strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions. The field portion of this project involves collection and preservation of plant material for genetic analysis, household surveys regarding farmer exchange of genetic material, and collection of environmental, topographic, and geographic data.
Requirements/Qualifications: The research assistant will be an integral part of project design, sampling, and data collection throughout the six-month period, 8/15/08 - 2/15/09. The assistant should have or be working towards a degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related field, and have research experience, including field work. Experience working abroad and in remote, rural areas is preferred. Interest in rural/international development and agriculture is welcome. This position involves living and working in a remote, mountainous area with minimal to non-existent amenities (eg running water, electricity). It involves working closely with Ethiopian farmers through translators and local assistants – willingness/ability to pick up languages quickly is a plus. The position involves walking long distances over rough terrain, often with a pack. Most importantly it involves being flexible and able to cope with everyday inconveniences, crises, and changes of plans which may, and will, arise of the course of this study.
Salary: Travel and Expenses. The chance to live and work in an amazing place which few people in the world will ever see.
To apply: Please send a cover letter, CV, and names and contact info of 2 references by June 15 to: Leah Samberg lsamberg@gmail.com. And please contact me at this email address with questions or for more information.
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Research Technician in Plant Evolutionary Ecology, University of Georgia
A full-time research technician position is available starting immediately in the Department of Plant Biology at the University of Georgia. The general research interests of lab are to understand how evolutionary and ecological factors may influence the mating systems in flowering plants. Current projects include conservation genetics of endangered species, evolution of separate sexes in flowering plants and functional analyses of male traits in hermaphroditic plants. Field and greenhouse experiments are a big component of these projects so it is crucial that the candidate can work outdoor and in the greenhouse in conditions that can be demanding, including working in hot GA summer weather.
Responsibilities also include bench work in the laboratory, such as DNA extraction, PCR, allozymes and microsatellite DNA genotyping, and measuring morphological and life history traits of plants. Candidates are expected to have some basic knowledge on laboratory techniques such as PCR and DNA extraction. Other duties include: overseeing day-to-day management of the laboratory; entering and managing electronic data files; working with undergraduate research assistants; maintaining greenhouse plants, and training of student workers. The position is ideal for a highly motivated person interested in gaining field and laboratory skills prior to starting graduate school or other work in the life sciences.
Requirements for the position are a bachelor's degree in biology, plant biology, ecology, evolution, or a related field as well as basic computer skills. The ideal candidate has a strong work ethic, positive attitude, excellent communication and organization skills, and the desire to acquire new field and laboratory research skills. Research experience in plants and an enthusiasm for field work will be advantageous.
To apply, please send a CV, a letter describing research background and interests and names and contact information of two references to: Shu-Mei Chang, chang@plantbio.uga.edu. Applications will be reviewed until position is filled. Salary is commensurate with experience and includes benefits.
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Seasonal Research Assistant: Oregon State University
We are looking for three enthusiastic individuals to assist in rocky intertidal research on the Oregon Coast. The marine ecology research focuses include mussel and barnacle larval recruitment and settlement, community ecology, and species interactions projects. This research assistant position involves both lab and field work. The lab work will include counting samples at a stereo microscope. The field work activities will involve hiking to field sites, climbing on coastal cliffs with heavy equipment and working on rocky exposed shores. The individual must be willing to work early mornings or late nights, some weekends, and some overnight stays at field sites.
Required qualifications: Self-motivated, ability to work both in a team setting and also independently; Undergraduate course work in marine biology/ecology; Familiarity with the rocky intertidal ecosystem and marine invertebrates of the Pacific Northwest; Previous field work experience; Excellent organizational and logistical skills; Valid driver's license and a good driving record; Hardworking and willing to work weekends and after hours.
Program: PISCO is a large-scale marine research program that focuses on understanding the nearshore and intertidal ecosystems of the U.S. West Coast. An interdisciplinary collaboration of scientists from four universities, PISCO (Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans) integrates long-term monitoring of ecological and oceanographic processes at dozens of coastal sites with experimental work in the lab and field. We explore how individual organisms, populations, and ecological communities vary over space and time. PISCO's findings are applied to issues of ocean conservation and management, and are shared through public outreach and student training programs. For more information visit our website at: http://piscoweb.org/
Salary: $9.25 Dates: June 1- November 30 (one position); June 1 - August 30 (two positions) Location: Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon Housing: We do not offer housing. Transportation: Transportation is provided to and from field sites. If you would like to apply for this position, please email with Job ID# ONSH 11, 12, or 13 2008 as the subject (11= 6 month, 12&13 =3 month): * a letter of intent explaining your interest in this work, your background, your dates available, and other pertinent information * a CV or resume * a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial copies accepted) * email and phone contact information for at least two references To: Jerod Sapp; PISCO lab manager; pisco@science.oregonstate.edu <mailto:pisco@science.oregonstate.edu>
For more information, contact Jerod by email or check out our website at http://www.piscoweb.org
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Summer Field Assistant at The Ecosystems Center of the Marine Biological Lab
Duties include participating in a large-scale field experiment to determine the interactive effects of nutrients and trophic structure on salt marsh ecosystems. We will follow the effects of additional nutrients and the removal of the mummichog on the salt marsh food web and nutrient cycles. The successful candidates will be expected to take leadership roles in executing the experiments, coordinating logistics in the field, and in monitoring some aspect of the ecosystem response to the manipulations.
Responsibilities include maintaining experimental manipulations, participating in field and laboratory measurements of chemistry and biology, and processing and analyzing project data. Frequent contact with the public, government agencies, boards and committees will be required. The successful applicant will work as part of a large multi-disciplinary team consisting of PIs, post-docs, graduate students and other research assistants and gain broad experience through field and laboratory work across interdisciplinary fields including biology, chemistry, and physical oceanography.
Basic Qualifications: The successful candidate should possess a BS or MS degree in Ecology, Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, or Marine Biology and at least one year experience in a related field. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, the ability to work as a member of a team, and the ability to communicate positively with the public are required.
Preferred Qualifications: Experience with database management, statistical programs, and scientific writing are a plus.
Physical Requirements: This position requires moderately strenuous fieldwork (lifting, bending, carrying heavy equipment, and walking through waist high marine waters and marsh) in marine environments, primarily intertidal settings under variable weather conditions. Ability to work with vertebrate and invertebrate animals and hazardous/harsh chemicals in the laboratory is needed. Irregular hours may include weekend, early morning or late evening work. Successful candidate will be expected to live at the field site in Plum Island Sound (3 hours from Woods Hole).
Required Applicant Documents: Resume/CV Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial transcripts are required documents but may be uploaded with your application documents or faxed to the Human Resources Office, 508-289-7931. If faxing, please reference this posting. Apply online at mbl.simplehire.com An Equal Opportunity Employer
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Research Assistant in plant ecology
A full-time field/laboratory research associate is needed to conduct and manage activities in support of research projects examining plant and ecosystem responses to global environmental change. The successful applicant will work independently and in close collaboration with other personnel on multi-investigator research projects at local and remote field sites. Periodic overnight travel will be required. Duties include: (1) Culturing of experimental plant material; (2) Designing and maintaining experiments; (3) Collecting, analyzing and summarizing data; (4) Measuring various aspects of plant growth and ecophysiology, and ecosystem processes under field and laboratory conditions; (5) General laboratory coordination and management, including ordering and organizing supplies, supervising and training students, maintaining and calibrating equipment, and maintaining laboratory records.
Required qualifications: MS, or BS/BA with experience, in Biology, Botany, Ecology or related discipline with research experience in plant ecology or ecophysiology; strong quantitative, analytical, organizational and computer skills; knowledge of experimental design and statistics; ability to work independently in laboratory and field settings, often under demanding field conditions. Experience with techniques and instrumentation in plant ecophysiology is desirable. Salary depends on experience and includes full benefits.
Applicants are encouraged to apply before June 16, 2008. Desired starting date is July 1, 2008, or soon thereafter. Application materials and information can be found at http://www.loyno.edu/human.resources/employment/staffemp.html.
Additional information on this position can be obtained by contacting Dr. Paul W. Barnes (pwbarnes@loyno.edu), Professor and J.H. Mullahy Chair in Environmental Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, Box 169, Loyola University New Orleans, 6363 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118; Phone: 504-865-2008; Fax 504-869-2078.
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Research Assistant in freshwater mussel parasites and disease in Alabama
This person will be working closely with the parasite and
disease group in our department to identify and study
ecological/life-history impacts of freshwater mussel parasites and
disease. The project is still under development and subject to
change/improvement, but centers on the little-known
interactions between
parasites/disease and population dynamics of freshwater mussels. In
many cases, disease causing agents have yet to be identified and
described. Our first goal will be to identify and describe bacterial
pathogens that may be important disease agents for native unionids. We will collect, identify, and
enumerate bacteria living within mussel organs and look for negative
correlations between specific bacterial loads and mussel health. Preliminary identification of disease-causing bacteria will then be
verified via further controlled experiments, and field studies on
naturally occurring mussel populations. Once bacterial pathogens have
been identified, we will design studies to examine population level
effects of these diseases under environmental stress.
The job is posted on our departmental webpage: http://www.ag.auburn.edu/fish/. It is currently advertised for an M.S. student (to get the project started), but there is a chance it could become a Ph.D. project.
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FIELD TECHNICIAN POSITIONS IN THE NORTHERN CHIHUAHUAN DESERT
Temporary positions working out of New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM within the Jornada Experimental Range in the northern Chihuahuan desert. Salary is $9 to $12/hr (commensurate with education and experience); no benefits; no housing provided; 4-6 months duration with extension possible, flexible start date.
Successful candidate must be a US citizen with a valid driver's license and the ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. Work involves collecting/recording data in the field for vegetation and soil sampling on monitoring and research projects. Position will also include laboratory work (primarily for soil physical properties and some simple soil chemistry), data entry and data manipulation. Opportunity to work with a diverse group of scientists and technicians in the northern Chihuahuan Desert on research projects designed to increase our understanding of desert ecology and our ability to sustainably manage arid and semi-arid ecosystems throughout the world. For additional information, visit: http://usda-ars.nmsu.edu/JER/Monit_Assess/monitoring.php
Send letter of application, resume and contact information for three references to: Ericha Courtright, Jornada Experimental Range, Box 30003, MSC 3JER, NMSU, Las Cruces, NM 88003 or ericha@nmsu.edu. Review of applications is ongoing.
