POSITION AVAILABLE – Field assistant/intern will assist with research on Grasshopper Ecosystem Study in Montana from June 1 (preferably late-May) through Sept. 30, 2008. This position can be filled by 1 person for 4 months or by 2 people in 2 segments (ie June/July and a second person for Aug/Sept). Preference is for 1 person for 4 months.
QUALIFICATIONS: Preference will be given to a recent graduate with backgrounds in biology and interests in ecology or conservation biology. • Ability to learn identification of grasshoppers and Palouse Prairie flora, including grasses. • Previous monitoring and/or field research experience is welcomed, but will train. • Ability to use or learn to use handheld data recorders, GPS, computers, other field equipment. • Valid U.S. driver's license. Having one’s own vehicle is advantageous, but not required, as town is 20 miles away. • Ability to work both independently and in a team setting. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: This is an on-going, long-term experimental project funded by an NSF-LTREB grant. The position is 90%+ field work. Assistant will help set up experiments (includes building experimental cages and catching large numbers of grasshoppers), monitor and take down experiments. Work will involve catching and censusing grasshoppers in the experiments, maintaining experimental cages, and sampling vegetation and soils. Some heavy lifting is required. Assistant will gain experience with a wide variety of ecological field techniques, including insect exclusion experiments, soil nutrient manipulation experiments, quantification of herbivore damage and plant growth, insect behavior. Assistant also will learn basic principles of experimental and sampling design in field ecology as well as identification of key insects and plants in Palouse Prairie grasslands. Field work is hard work that requires dedication and perseverance. Field assistants will be exposed to rough terrain, unpredictable weather, biting insects, etc.; must be capable of sustained physical work under these conditions. Willingness to contribute to a positive group dynamic is required. APPLICATION DETAILS: Start date is June 1, 2008 (or as soon as May 15). End date is September 30. Stipend is $1000/month. Shared housing will be provided near the research site. Applications will continue to be received until the position is filled (preferably by April 30th). Hiring will be through the University of Notre Dame. Review of applications will begin as they are received. Please send cover letter, resume and contact information (name, position, phone, e-mail and mailing address) for 3 references to Jennifer Belovsky by e-mail [EMAIL PROTECTED]
