Apologies for cross-postings..... We are seeking two (2) field assistants and one (1) field crew leader for field work this summer on our study of the ecology of plague in prairie dogs and other small mammals in northern Colorado. Position descriptions and application procedures are posted below.
1) FIELD RESEARCH ASSISTANT POSITIONS We are seeking two research assistants to help with field work on our NSF-funded study of the ecology of plague in prairie-dog colonies in shortgrass prairie in northern Colorado. Position will primarily involve live-trapping small mammals, collecting tissue and blood samples, and swabbing burrows for fleas. Other duties may include observing and quantifying animal behavior in the field, measuring vegetation and habitat characteristics on study areas, and laboratory work to identify fleas. Undergraduate students interested in opportunities for independent research (Jun-Aug) related to the project should contact Dr. Paul Stapp, California State University Fullerton ([EMAIL PROTECTED]). DATES: Full-time from early May through late September 2006 (~5 months) REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: * Previous field experience with live-trapping, handling and marking small mammals, and willingness to learn and use techniques for collecting blood and tissue samples on anesthetized animals * Positive attitude and ability to live and work long hours with others in a field setting * Good physical condition and willingness to work outdoors for extended periods in variable weather conditions * Familiarity with computers, especially MS Excel and good organizational skills. * Valid driver's license DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: * Experience with retro-orbital bleeding and tissue collection and radiotelemetry * Interest in mammals, arthropods, ectoparasites (fleas), and grassland ecology * Identification of fleas using microscope * Ability to use a GPS and map and to drive a 4WD vehicle SALARY: $1400/mo, plus shared, dormitory-style housing at the SGS Long-Term Ecological Research site near Nunn, Colorado, or comparable accommodations. TO APPLY: Send email with attachment (Word or pdf) that includes a cover letter describing your interest and relevant qualifications, resume, and contact information (telephone number, email) for 2 references to Dr. Paul Stapp, [EMAIL PROTECTED] Positions are open until filled, but review of applications will begin 15 March 2006. 2) FIELD CREW LEADER POSITION We are seeking a field crew leader to coordinate and assist with field work on our NSF-funded study of the ecology of plague in prairie-dog colonies in shortgrass prairie in northern Colorado. Field work will primarily involve live-trapping small mammals, collecting tissue and blood samples, and swabbing burrows for fleas. Other duties may include observing and quantifying animal behavior in the field, measuring vegetation and habitat characteristics on study areas, and laboratory work to identify fleas. The crew leader will be responsible for coordinating and supervising work of field assistants, tracking and ordering supplies, data management and maintenance of equipment and vehicles, and will be the primary contact with scientists on the project. DATES: Full-time from early May through 1 October (~5 months), with the possibility of extension MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: * Previous extensive field experience with live-trapping, handling and marking small mammals, and willingness to learn and use techniques for collecting blood and tissue samples on anesthetized animals * BS/BA in biology, wildlife biology, ecology or a related area * Strong organizational and data collection and management skills * Positive attitude and ability to live and work long hours with others in field settings * Good physical condition and willingness to work outdoors for extended periods in variable weather conditions * Familiarity with computers, especially MS Excel * Valid driver's license and ability to drive a 4WD DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: * Previous experience supervising field technicians * Previous experience with retro-orbital bleeding and tissue collection * Interest in mammals, arthropods, ectoparasites (fleas), and grassland ecology * Identification of arthropods, especially fleas, using a microscope * Skills or interest in learning laboratory techniques, e.g., PCR * MS/MA in biology, wildlife biology, ecology or a related area SALARY: $2000/mo, plus shared, dormitory-style housing at the SGS Long-Term Ecological Research site near Nunn, Colorado, or comparable accommodations. TO APPLY: Send email with attachment (Word or pdf) that includes a cover letter describing your interest and addressing the above qualifications, a resume/CV, and contact information (telephone number, email) for 2 references to Dr. Paul Stapp, [EMAIL PROTECTED] Positions are open until filled, but review of applications will begin 15 March 2006.
