Field Research Internships – Vegetation Sampling Department of Forest & Wildlife Ecology University of Wisconsin – Madison
The Forest Landscape and Ecosystem Ecology Laboratories invite applications for internships sampling ground-layer vegetation as part of a long-term, large-scale field experiment located in the beautiful Flambeau River State Forest of northern Wisconsin (http://landscape.forest.wisc.edu/projects/flambeau/). This study uses experimental manipulations of forest structure and white-tailed deer herbivory to examine methods of restoring old-growth forest composition, structure and processes to the understory of younger second-growth forests. This opportunity is funded as a one-time educational experience in applied ecological research for undergraduate students and recent graduates. Participants will gain experience on numerous topics but will be encouraged to develop and carry out and present a research project.
Duties: Interns will collect post-treatment data on the spatial distribution of approximately 200 species of vascular plants (tree seedlings, shrubs, herbaceous annuals and perennials, grasses, ferns and sedges). Other tasks may include measuring the corresponding micro-environment, construction and maintenance of field equipment, data entry and summarization, and lab work. Sampling will commence early in the spring to coincide with the phenology of the spring ephemerals (April 21th).
Desired Skills: Applicants should demonstrate: the ability to work as part of a team in a remote forest setting (supervised as well as under a minimal level of supervision), written and verbal communication skills, meticulous attention to detail, the ability to follow field and lab protocols, and organizational skills. Training and/or experience in plant taxonomy and identification is a plus, however, training will be provided as part of the program.
Compensation: Applicants should also be prepared to live and work in rural north-central Wisconsin (Hawkins, WI). Since our emphasis will be on field work, applicants should be capable of vigorous physical activity (e.g., working long hours outdoors in hot/cold, rainy/snowy, and buggy conditions). Appointments are full time (40 hrs/wk). Though not based in Madison, interns will be agents of UW-Madison during research on the Flambeau – this status provides liability protection and a tax-free monthly stipend of $700. Housing will be provided.
To Apply: Please send a 1) current resume, 2) the names and contact information for three references and 3) a cover letter indicating your availability, education, experience and potential research interests to Julia Burton ([EMAIL PROTECTED]).
Preference will be given to undergraduate and newly graduated students that can commit for a three month period beginning on April 21, but we will also consider some applicants only available for shorter time periods.
-- Julia Burton Forest Landscape Ecology Lab http://landscape.forest.wisc.edu/ Dept. of Forest & Wildlife Ecology University of Wisconsin-Madison Phone 608.265.6321 Fax 608.262.9922
