VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANTS (5) NEEDED FOR RESEARCH IN AUSTRALIA. We are studying dispersal behavior and gene flow in the fragmented Eucalyptus woodlands of SE Australia. Volunteers are needed from mid-July through November 2006 to assist with field work on the brown treecreeper (Climacteris picumnus), a small cooperatively breeding passerine bird that is endemic to Australia. Duties will include: mistnetting, banding, and blood sampling adults and juveniles; intensive radiotracking of dispersing yearlings; and conducting behavioral observations of color-banded birds. The majority of the work will be conducted in temperate eucalypt woodland near Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, but additional sites will be visited further north in New South Wales. Applicants must be in good physical condition (there will be lots of walking and hill climbing while carrying a diverse array of gear), capable of working independently, and willing to work long hours with one day off per week. Prior experience with mistnetting, behavioral observation, radiotracking, and data entry will be beneficial but not required. An enthusiasm for scientific research (particularly in the areas of behavioral ecology and/or conservation biology), a keen desire to experience Australia's unique environments, and the ability to live and work well with diverse individuals are absolutely essential. This will be an excellent opportunity for recent graduates to gain experience conducting field research before proceeding on to graduate study. Volunteers will need to provide their own transportation to Canberra, Australia. Room and board will be provided along with a small stipend. Send a brief letter of introduction, a 2-page CV, and contact information for 3 references via e-mail (preferred) to [EMAIL PROTECTED] or via snail-mail to DRS. ERIK and VERONICA DOERR, CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems, GPO Box 284, Canberra, ACT 2601 AUSTRALIA. Review of applications will begin on 31 March.
