Job Description:
Two field assistants are needed for an ongoing
long-term study of the behavioral ecology of the
cooperatively breeding Acorn Woodpecker at the
Hastings Reserve in upper Carmel Valley,
California. Hastings is run by the Museum of
Vertebrate Zoology, UC Berkeley. We have studied
the behavioral ecology of color-banded Acorn
Woodpeckers for over 45 years at this site. The
current research focuses on ecological
constraints and reproductive skew and the role
each plays in the evolution of cooperative
breeding. Assistants will be involved in
monitoring group composition and
roosting/nesting/feeding behavior. The experience
is designed to be one of total immersion six days
per week. A modest stipend of $600 / month plus free housing is provided.
There are two positions: (1) 15 Feb to 15 Jul; (2) 15 Mar to 15 Jul
To Apply:
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and
the positions will remain open until filled. If
interested, apply sooner rather than later. Our
positions usually fill quickly. Please include
the following in your application: a resumé (one
page resumés are discouraged - please provide
detailed descriptions of your academic,
volunteer, and professional experiences); a cover
letter describing why you should be considered
for one of our positions; the names, phone
numbers, and email addresses of at least three
academic / professional references (preferably
ones familiar with your ability to conduct field
work); and the dates you are available to work at the Hastings Reserve.
For further information - and to see whether the
positions have been filled, please consult our
employment web site: http://www.ericlwalters.org/employment.htm
Applications should be sent as attachments by
email to Dr. Eric L. Walters at [email protected]
Qualifications:
Must be an avid hiker who is comfortable hiking
up and down hills. Prior experience with birds
(especially the ability to read color bands) is
desirable but not required. Self-motivation,
enthusiasm for the research questions, a
willingness to sit in a blind for up to 3 hours
per session (in hot or cold weather, often with
annoying face flies), and an ability to tackle
the rigors of field work are a must. We
especially encourage those applicants interested
in behavioral ecology that are planning to attend
graduate school. Because the field site is 1 hour
from town, having a car is highly desirable.
Eric L. Walters, PhD
Assistant Professor
Dept of Biological Sciences
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA 23529-0266
