FIELD ECOLOGY RESEARCH ASSISTANT POSITIONS LOCATION: Sonoran Desert/Gulf of California, Bahia de Kino (Kino Bay), Sonora, Mexico
DURATION: mid April through early July, 2009 (some flexibility in exact start/end dates). DESCRIPTION: Four highly motivated research assistants are sought for field studies on the ecology and evolution of the pollination mutualism between senita cacti and senita moths and the protection mutualism between senita cacti and ants in the Sonoran Desert. Successful applicants will contribute to data management through computer database software and to data collection through the implementation and monitoring of experimental and observational studies in the field. Research topics include pollination ecology and plant reproductive biology, insect behavior and life histories, and demography and population dynamics of plants and insects. Opportunities exist for successful applicants to develop independent projects. Further information on the research can be found at http://www.ruf.rice.edu/~jholland/index.html QUALIFICATIONS: Applications should have background in, be pursuing, or have a degree in biology, botany, ecology, entomology, environmental studies, or other related field. Successful applicants should be able to work independently and as a part of a team, during often long irregular (nocturnal) hours under harsh, hot environmental conditions. Attention to detail, ability to manage multiple tasks, and computer skills (MS Excel) are desirable; bi-lingual English-Spanish skills are desirable, but not required. Successful applicants must be able to show respectful, tolerant behavior of others while living together in a beach house on the Gulf of California. COMPENSATION: Housing, food, and a monthly stipend (U.S. $1,200/month). APPLICATION: Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names, addresses, and e-mails of three persons who can provide letters of recommendation. Electronic applications are encouraged and should be sent by e-mail, as a single pdf attachment, to Dr. Nat Holland: [email protected] . Postal mail applications may be submitted to the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Rice University MS-170, 6100 Main St., Houston, Texas 77005, U.S.A. Review of applications will begin March 6, 2009 and continue until the positions are filled.
