Plant Ecology field/lab volunteer position with USGS, Hawaii. This volunteer position starts in mid-April, 2018 and lasts 6 months; housing and per diem are provided. We are looking for a motivated intern with field/lab experience to work on a project in mid-elevation mesic forest on Hawaii Island relating to invasive plants, native birds, and ecosystem restoration. In particular, the work focuses on how plant-soil interactions and bird dispersal of native seed affect native understory regeneration in Acacia koa reforestation projects, therefore previous experience with plant/soil sampling and labwork is desirable. Field responsibilities include: collecting plant survey data, maintaining and collecting seedrain traps, outplanting experimental plants, collecting plant foliar and litter samples, soil coring. Field sites are in Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge at 5000-7000 ft elevation and may be cold and wet OR hot and dry depending on time of year. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, hike over rough terrain long distances carrying field gear, navigate using GPS/compass, and drive a 4x4 automatic vehicle on unpaved roads. Lab responsibilities include: grinding plant material, soil sieving, soil extractions, data entry, processing seed rain samples, processing bird fecal samples for seed. Compensation is $1040/month per diem and housing is provided in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, or at Hakalau depending on field schedule; transportation provided to and from work and to Hilo for supplies. Airfare is only provided from Oahu to Hilo. There is no WIFI at the field site. To apply, please send AS A SINGLE DOCUMENT 1. brief cover letter highlighting relevant experience and why you are interested in the position, 2. resume, and 3. name, address, phone number, and email address of at least 3 references to Dr. Stephanie Yelenik, USGS Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center, syele...@usgs.gov. Applications will be considered as they are received to fill the position quickly, and priority given to those who can start mid- April.
