Volunteer Research Assistants Needed for Montane Vole Research in the Rocky Mountains
Volunteer field research assistants needed June 10 - Aug 20 for an ongoing population and behavioral study of the montane vole. Shorter time intervals are possible, but I request a research assistant who can stay for at least 1 month. Research: I am looking for a student to assist me with my field research this summer at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL) in Colorado . Field assistant responsibilities include early morning trapping, ear-tagging, collecting blood and fecal samples for parasite analysis, and creating trapping grids. I will also be conducting mate choice experiments that will involve behavioral observations. Previous experience working with rodents or conducting field work is desirable but not necessary; the only prerequisites are patience and persistence. If interested, the selected student will have the opportunity to investigate questions that relate to my project and I can help in the development of a paper or poster. This is an excellent opportunity for bright and enthusiastic students to gain field research experience. Location: The remote alpine research station is set in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, where there are numerous activities in the outdoors, including hiking, fishing, biking and rafting. The local landscape includes sagebrush scrub, meadows, aspen and conifer forests, alpine tundra, streams, lakes, and ponds. Local wildlife (that I have seen) includes numerous birds, amphibians, beavers, coyotes, red foxes, porcupines, deer, marmots, pikas, weasels, elk, and bighorn sheep. The research community of Gothic, Colorado is a spirited collection of scientists, post-docs, grad and undergrad students, and research assistants. Weekly summer seminars are given by researchers from across the country and socials are routinely planned by the students. Researchers have access to the library and computers with internet. Support: I can offer course credit from the student’s college, but no stipends or travel funds. The lodgings are rustic cooking cabins (rates are $7.00/day). Part-time positions in the kitchen, store, and work-crew are available at the field station to supplement room and board. Application Deadline: Review of applications will continue until positions are filled. I am looking to take on 3 volunteers. Application: Via e-mail, please submit a one-page letter of interest stating how and why this position satisfies your interest and future career goals, a curriculum vitae or resume, and names and email addresses of 2 references to Jamie Winternitz at: e-mail: [email protected] Jamie Winternitz, Graduate Student Odum School of Ecology , University of Georgia Athens , GA , 30602
