*Job Opening: Research Associate for Ecological Study of the Endangered
Laguna Mountain Skipper
*
*Background: *The Laguna Mountains skipper (/Pyrgus ruralis lagunae/) is
a small, black and white butterfly known from two mountain ranges in
southern California: the Laguna Mountains and Palomar Mountain, San
Diego County, California. The skipper is listed as an endangered
species under the Endangered Species Act. To learn how to properly
manage extant populations of this little-studied subspecies we need to
understand critical aspects of its life history. **
*Study Site: *This work will be completed at selected study sites in
Mendenhall Valley on Palomar Mountain east of San Diego CA. **
*MAJOR JOB ACTIVITIES: *Under the direction of the Xerces Society
Executive Director and local U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff the
Research Associate will conduct a detailed ecological study of the
Laguna Mountain skipper. The following questions will be addressed: 1)
Where in the habitat, and on which plants, do adult females oviposit?
(2) What are the vegetation characteristics of oviposition areas? (3)
What is the larval behavior (if caterpillars are found)? (4) Do pupae
eclose synchronously or over a more protracted period? (5) What is the
duration of the flight season and is the subspecies uni- or
bi-voltine?. The Research Associate will also conduct order of
magnitude population estimates using modified Pollard walks. The
successful applicant will be trained in butterfly monitoring and
research techniques.**
*Start Date:* Early May 2007.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following:
* Ability to reliably work independently in the field after an
initial training.
* Possess a valid driver's license.
* Detail oriented.
* Field ecological research experience.
* Bachelors degree (Graduate degree preferred) in entomology,
ecology, conservation biology, or natural resource management.
* Knowledge of species (especially invertebrates), natural
communities, ecosystems, ecological processes, and their
conservation needs. **
* Ability to work cooperatively with a number of staff and external
parties in order to complete project work and goals in a timely
manner.
* *
*WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT:* Research Associate may have to
work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult
and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
*TERMS:* This is a 3 month position to include May, June and July 2007.
* *
*Compensation:* $3,000 per month for three months. Arrangements are
being made for free lodging and/or camping.
*MORE INFORMATION: *For more information on the Xerces Society and our
programs, please see our website. *www.xerces.org *
*APPLICATION:* Anyone interested in this position should mail or email a
cover letter, resume, names and contact information for three references
to:
Scott Hoffman Black
4828 SE Hawthorne Blvd.
Portland, OR 97215
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
* *
*DEADLINE:* Open until filled
The Xerces Society is an international nonprofit organization that protects the
diversity of life through invertebrate conservation. To join the Society, make
a contribution, or read about our work, please visit www.xerces.org.
