EFFECTS OF IMPERFECT DETECTABILITY ON INFERENCES FROM AVIAN MONITORING Ph.D. ASSISTANTSHIP in WILDLIFE ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT or CONSERVATION BIOLOGY Minnesota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The value of bird monitoring has come under increasing scrutiny recently due to concerns about imperfect detectability. In particular, because the probability of detecting a bird in the area surveyed often is less than one, counts are indices of abundance, rather than actual estimates of abundance. Although a variety of methods that attempt to adjust counts for imperfect detectability have been advanced, questions arise about the applicability of the methods in extensive multispecies surveys. A critical question is the extent to which estimates of population change are affected by imperfect detectability and whether or not suggested adjustment methods offer improved results worthy of the additional effort. The objective of the proposed study is to evaluate the influence of imperfect detectability on inferences about population changes. The student is expected to simulate a wide variety of conditions involving detectability (both availability and perceptibility) and determine how inferences about trends would be affected. Detectability will be varied in realistic ways, as indicated by field observations and controlled studies. Simulated results will be adjusted for detectability in accordance with suggested procedures (various distance sampling, multiple-observer, and time-to-detection methods). As necessary, field studies will be conducted to determine how detectability is affected by abundance and variety of birds and other features. REQUISITES: M.S. or M.A. in a scientific or mathematical field. (Alternatively, a B.A. or B.S. along with strong evidence that the student could successfully complete a Ph.D. program.) Quantitative and computational skills; an interest in avian biology and conservation; ability to work with diverse project cooperators; ability to help design and conduct simulation studies and field research; and meet or exceed program entry requirements in Natural Resources Science and Management (Wildlife Ecology and Management track) or Conservation Biology at the University of Minnesota. DESIRED EXPERIENCE: Previous field work with or surveys of birds, demonstrated quantitative and data analysis skills, and previous peer-reviewed publications. DURATION: As soon as suitable candidate is found, continuing for three years. STIPEND: About $18,800 per year, plus health insurance and tuition waiver CONTACT: Dr. Douglas H. Johnson Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology 200 Hodson Hall 1980 Folwell Avenue St. Paul, MN 55108 [email protected] 612-624-4716
