Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources seeks seasonal Field Assistants (3/4 - full-time) for research on the effects of forest fragmentation on seed dispersal and recruitment in oaks (Quercus spp.) in Indiana. Study uses radio telemetry to track acorn dispersal and caching by Blue Jays, Woodpeckers, and Squirrels in highly fragmented landscapes.
Duties will include: Maintain and monitor feeding stations using remote-trigger cameras; interpret remote camera data; implant acorns with radio transmitters; track dispersed acorns and determine their fates; monitor seed traps to measure acorn production; collect habitat data on cache sites; assist with organization and oversight of undergraduate field technicians; assist with capture, banding, and radio tagging Blue Jays , and help maintain automated radio telemetry system (ARTS) for monitoring Blue Jay movements. Minimum Qualifications: BS in Wildlife Science, Forestry, Biology, Botany, or related field (recent graduates are encouraged to apply); valid driver's license; strong organizational and communications skills and attention to detail in data collection; ability to follow written and oral instructions and function independently and as part of a team; ability to navigate in the field using map, aerial photos, and GPS; willingness and ability to work outside for extended periods, potentially under inclement weather conditions (i.e. wind, rain, snow, freezing temperatures) Preferred Qualifications: MS degree; ability to identify Eastern Deciduous tree species and their seeds; experience with radio telemetry, remote-trigger cameras, and/or GPS; bird banding experience; experience supervising and scheduling individuals and/or teams Start: mid-late August 2008 (exact date negotiable) End: March/April 2009, with possible re-hire in Fall, 2009 contingent on performance Compensation: $10 / hr ($1200 - $1600 /mo) To apply: Send letter of interest, resume/CV, and names and email addresses of 3 references to Nathan Lichti at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Position will remain open until filled. Purdue University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer
