Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute –Internship in Forest Trophic Interactions.
Overview The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) seeks two interns to participate in a European Research Council funded research addressing the ecological determinants of tropical and temperate trends in insect diversity. To answer key questions in global insect distribution we are applying quantitative surveys of plant-herbivore-parasitoid food webs within paired sets of tropical and temperate forests from six continents, in Papua New Guinea (PNG), Gabon, Panama, the Czech Republic, Japan, and USA. This internship will be based in the CTFS-ForestGEO-Forest Ecosystems & Climate lab in Front Royal, Virginia. The SCBI campus is located near the north entrance of the Shenandoah National Park about 60 miles west of Washington, D.C., in the hills outside of Front Royal, VA. The CTFS-ForestGEO-Forest Ecosystems & Climate lab (led by Kristina Anderson-Teixeira) conducts a range of research with the overall goal of understanding the dynamics of forest ecosystems worldwide in an era of global change. Qualifications & Position Information Candidates should be advanced undergraduates or recent university graduates and have coursework in ecology, conservation biology, entomology, environmental sciences, or a closely related field. Field experience in terrestrial ecosystem ecology, forestry, entomology, or a related field is essential plus the ability to follow established survey and protocols, and collect detailed and accurate data. Candidates must have the ability to work in the field for prolonged hours in hot and humid conditions, to work independently and to collaborate effectively as part of a research team. Sampling techniques will include sampling from truck-mounted elevated platforms. This is a four- to six-month position with a start date is mid-April 2016. The position(s) will be compensated with a stipend sufficient to cover living expenses, potentially including on-site housing. Application procedure To apply, please email a cover letter describing your qualifications and interest in the position, CV, and contact information for 3 references to Erika Gonzalez-Akre at [email protected]. Deadline for application is January 30, 2016. The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce; female and minority candidates are encouraged to apply.
