I am seeking a field assistant to conduct research on a project at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Central Panama. The project addresses the potential impact of climate change on the ecology of ticks and tick-borne disease in the neotropics. This position entails substantial field work duties in addition to laboratory duties. The assistant would aid in surveying ticks, monitoring survival enclosures, and establishing camera traps. Some field duties require extensive hiking in difficult terrain guided by a GPS and compass. All field work will take place in the Panama Canal region, and the assistant would be stationed in Gamboa. This is a full-time volunteer position but housing will be covered and funds are available to help defray the cost of airfare.
Qualifications: applicants should have a B.S. or B.A. and should be conversant in Spanish and English. Applicants should be able to drive a manual four-wheel drive field truck in very muddy conditions. Prior experience working with arthropods is desirable but not necessary. Applicants must be in excellent physical condition and willing to spend long days in the field, often in adverse weather conditions. Prospective applicants should send a cover letter describing their research experience and interest in the position, CV, and contact information for three references. Dates of Position: The position will begin late February and continue until August 15, 2016. However, exact dates are flexible. Contact Erin Welsh at [email protected] to send applications or for more information.
