DESCRIPTION: Volunteer research position available to study the role of plant-pathogen interactions in maintaining tropical forest plant biodiversity. Field work will be based in Belize, in association with the University of Oxford, UK.
The position will provide excellent research experience and training in tropical forest ecology including botanical and mycological techniques and field experiments. Responsibilities will include collecting, identifying and germinating seeds, maintaining seedlings in shadehouse conditions, establishing, maintaining and monitoring field experiments and sampling and preserving fungal seedling pathogens. The RA will be working closely with two postdoctoral research associates and a PhD student. The field site is located adjacent to the Las Cuevas Research Station in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Belize, Central America, where the volunteer will be accommodated. Information about Las Cuevas can be found at: http://www.lascuevas.org/ QUALIFICATIONS: This temporary position would suit a recent graduate or an experienced field worker interested in tropical forest ecology. Previous field experience in tropical forests is desirable but not essential. Individuals who enjoy field work and working with others, pay attention to detail, and can work long hours under a variety of field conditions are encouraged to apply. SALARY: This is a volunteer position. Food, lodging, local transport and one return flight to Belize will be provided. DURATION: This is a temporary position of 3-4 months, ideally starting in May 2009. Start date is negotiable. There will be a six week probationary period. CLOSING DATE: Applications should arrive by 5 PM, 6 April 2009. TO APPLY: Send the following to Dr Rachel Gallery (rachel.gall...@zoo.ox.ac.uk): 1. Cover letter that includes information about your interests and qualifications, dates of availability, and contact information. 2. Names, phone numbers, and email addresses of two referees who are familiar with your academic and/or field skills. 3. CV.
