The Smith lab at Willamette University is soliciting applications for volunteers to participate in field research studying the pollination biology and coevolution of Joshua trees (*Yucca brevifolia*) and yucca moths (genus *Tegeticula*) from late March to mid April of 2015.
Volunteers will assist in the completion of pollination experiments in a plant hybrid zone located in central Nevada. Participation will require living at a remote field site continuously for approximately four weeks. Cost of transportation to the field site will be covered as will food while in the field. Successful applicants will be of above-average physical fitness (i.e.,capable of walking 10 miles per day while carrying heavy and awkward loads, able to climb a 6' ladder, and able to lift 40 lbs) and be enthusiastic about living and working closely with others in challenging conditions. The field site has no running water, little opportunity for personal space and time, and no phone/internet services. Daily temperatures may drop below freezing or exceed 90 F. Wind and sandstorms are very common. Volunteers must have an educational background in biology or a related field (there is no degree requirement, but a familiarity with ecology and natural history is necessary) and must provide their own camping equipment. Essential gear includes a 4-season tent, a sleeping pad, a sleeping bag rated to 20 degrees F, and backpack with at least a 40 liter capacity. Prospective volunteers should submit a CV or resume, the name and contact information for one or more professional references, and a letter describing their interest in the project by email to [email protected] . Please include the words 'Volunteer Field Assistant' in the subject line of your message. Screening of applicants will begin on December 24th, 2014, and continue until all positions are filled. http://www.willamette.edu/~csmith/ChrisSmith.htm http://www.nsf.gov/discoveries/disc_summ.jsp?cntn_id=115956&org=NSF Christopher Irwin Smith Associate Professor and Chair Department of Biology Willamette University Salem, OR 97301 ph: 503-370-6181 fax: 503-375-5425 Google Calendar Lab Website: http://www.willamette.edu/~csmith/ChrisSmith.htm
