Scientific

Volunteer Field Assistant - Queensland, Australia

Organization: Cornell Lab of Ornithology / Washington State University

Job Type: Volunteer

Location: Herberton, QLD, Australia,

Posting Date: Apr 17, 2012

Deadline: Jul 01, 2012

Website: http://www.nbb.cornell.edu/neurobio/websterlab/index.html

Volunteer field assistant needed from approximately July – mid Dec. 2012 (dates somewhat flexible) for a study of the breeding behavior and phylogeography of the Red-backed Fairy-Wren in Queensland, Australia. Research will focus on continuing a long-term monitoring project and conducting several studies of graduate students from Cornell University and Washington State University (additional information at www.nbb.cornell.edu/neurobio/websterlab/index.html).

Duties include nest searching and monitoring, target netting, collection of blood samples, behavioral observations, territory mapping, and data entry. Previous experience with mist netting and banding is highly desired. Nest searching and bleeding experience is also preferred, but not required. Applicants must be competent at driving manual transmission vehicles. The study sites are rugged and remote, and poisonous snakes, ticks, and land leeches are common. Therefore, applicants must be able to hike steep hills off-trail, withstand conditions at the site, and maintain a positive and energetic attitude despite long hours and hot and humid conditions. Work schedules and duties will vary, so flexibility is a must. Assistants will enjoy fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities (Wallabies, platypus, echidna, kookaburra, etc.) and proximity to Queensland rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Food and housing will be provided. However, assistants will have to provide their own airfare to and from Australia.

Previous experience with mist netting and banding is highly desired. Nest searching and bleeding experience is also preferred, but not required. Applicants must be competent at driving manual transmission vehicles.

To apply, please send cover letter detailing interests and previous experience, resume, and list of 3 references to Doug Barron (e-mail: dbarron5(at)wsu.edu: (at) replaces @ to dodge spammers, PH: 479-970-4569).

Please note that this project will be hiring 6-8 additional assistants from Oct. – mid Jan. 2013; if interested in also being considered for these positions please state so. Initial review of applications will begin May 15 and will continue until position is filled.

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