Field Research Assistants (x3), sea lamprey (Wagner Lab, Michigan State University).
Project Description & Job Roles: Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) are an aquatic invasive pest in the Great Lakes basin; damaging commercial and recreational fisheries and altering lake ecology by feeding on a wide range of fish species. Our research group investigates various aspects of sea lamprey behaviour to discover means that will aid international control efforts. In particular, in 2017 we will focus on the species’ chemical communication system during their spawning migration into streams in spring-summer, and our ability to remove them from streams using a selective fish passage structure. Project work will take place near Millersburg, northern Michigan (USGS Hammond Bay Biological Station and Ocqueoc River, although other sites may also be used). Projects may begin as early as April 15th and will continue into late-July. During this time you will be working regularly with staff from the US Geological Service, US Fish & Wildlife Service, and other MSU faculty and students. Experiments take place overnight as a result of the species’ nocturnal habits, but early season setup takes place during daylight. A typical work day will include: tagging sea lamprey for telemetry; maintenance of lab and field equipment; data collection, processing and archiving; fish husbandry. A typical work week will be 40-50 hours in duration, depending on weather. Local accommodation is provided at no charge, and transport is provided for travel between the field station, field sites, and other work related needs. Requirements: Completion of two or more years of college-level coursework in fisheries, ecology or a closely-related discipline. Conditions in northern Michigan during spring-summer can be inclement, warm, humid and “very buggy” and applicants should be comfortable in these conditions for extended periods of time. Applicants must also be comfortable in working throughout the night. You must hold a valid driver’s license, and experience driving four-wheel drive trucks is beneficial. We are looking for mature, responsible, enthusiastic and self-motivated individuals who will work well with others. Applicants will be required to: carry up to 40 lbs; carefully handle expensive equipment; and be able to maintain a high quality work ethic under difficult field conditions. Start Date: April 15th - May 1st, or soonest thereafter. Preference will be given to those with the earliest availability, but is dependent on prevailing weather conditions (i.e., early vs. late spring). Compensation: $10-12/hr (depending on experience). Shared housing will be provided free of charge. How to apply: Provide a short cover letter outlining your suitability for the position, and include an up-to-date résumé. Please include: 1) your name; 2) a permanent mailing address; 3) telephone number; 4) email address; 5) date of birth; 6) education, including descriptions of relevant classes; 7) work or volunteer experience related to the job role; and 8) up to three references with contact information. Send your application to: <mailto:jh...@msu.edu> jh...@msu.edu, Phone: 517-353-0731. Application deadline: February 17th, 5PM Eastern. Successful applicants will be contacted via email to confirm their availability to interview. Interviews will take place at Michigan State University, but can be conducted remotely. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- John B. Hume Postdoctoral Research Associate Wagner Laboratory, Department of Fisheries & Wildlife Natural Resources Building, Rm. 22 Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 U.S.A. Tel.: 517-353-0731 (Office); 517-974-5477 (Mobile) E-mail: jh...@msu.edu Website: http://www.fw.msu.edu/people/john_hume http://www.wagnerlabmsu.com/ Or follow me on Twitter @thatlampreyguy LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-hume-47098b6a
