Job Description: A field technician is needed from April through October to assist in a research project addressing the post-release survival of captive-reared Allegheny woodrats, the numeric response of supplemented populations, and patterns of seed preference by the granivore community. The project will incorporate a number of field techniques including radio-telemetry, live-trapping/handling, and the deployment of camera traps. Allegheny woodrats are listed as a state endangered species in Indiana and a species of conservation concern throughout much of their range. All woodrat populations in the study are restricted to the cliff/bluff habitats overlooking the Ohio River in extreme southern Indiana, near the town of Corydon. Occupied habitats are very steep; applicants should be comfortable and confident working at heights; rock climbing and rope experience are a strong benefit. Duties will be partitioned seasonally, transitioning from telemetry to live-trapping to vegetation sampling and maintenance of camera-traps placed over seed trays. Telemetry will include both diurnal and nocturnal work and will require scrambling throughout the cliff environment to identify occupied den sites. Live trapping will require setting traps throughout the study areas and processing captured individuals (sex, age, weight, collecting DNA samples). Camera-traps will be maintained throughout large stretches of intact forest surrounding woodrat habitats.
Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in a natural resources or related field or equivalent experience is desired. In addition, prior experience with radio-telemetry, trapping and handling mammals, and/or the use of camera-traps is preferred. Applicants must be willing and capable of walking several miles a day in variable weather conditions, possess the ability to work independently as well as in a team, and live in close quarters. Pay is $9/hour, and field housing will be provided. Applicants must have a valid driver's license and good driving record. Continued employment through October 2012 is possible pending satisfactory performance and funds. To apply: Send via e-mail a cover letter, resume, and contact information for 3 references to [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>. The closing date for the position is February 20th. Rob Swihart Professor and Head Department of Forestry and Natural Resources Purdue University West Lafayette, IN 47907-2061 PH: 765-494-3590
