Oregon Aquatic Research Technician (two 2-month positions) needed to conduct aquatic ecology surveys on public and private forest lands. Duties include backpack electrofishing, collection of macroinvertebrate and periphyton samples, habitat surveys, and working closely with primary investigators.  Experience with ecology field work and interest in aquatic ecology is desired.  Applicants should be comfortable navigating in remote backcountry settings and be able to work as a team member under difficult field conditions. Overnight camping is expected.  Position extends from July to August 2021.  Full position announcement available at: https://www.ncasi.org/about-ncasi/careers/  Pursuing a bachelor degree in a biological sciences discipline is required.  Please send cover letter, resume, and 3 references with phone numbers and e-mail addresses to: Laurie Clark, National Council for Air and Stream Improvement, Inc.: lclark@ncasi.org.  Applicant review will begin March 1, 2021 and continue until the position is filled. NCASI is an equal opportunity employer.

The Plant-Pollinator Ecology Team is seeking several field technicians for statewide biological monitoring of grasslands, including monarch butterflies and milkweeds. Field technicians will be measuring the abundance of nectar plants, aiding with pollinator surveys, and observing monarch butterfly eggs and larvae. Duties will include: conducting field surveys of flowering grassland plants, planting of milkweed plants in the field, driving and navigating to study sites, data entry in an office setting, assisting with other office and field work as needed, and work and travel in small teams.

Candidates must have field experience in plant or insect biology (candidates that have worked on other taxa will be considered), or undergraduate course work in biology, ecology, botany, entomology, or related fields. A valid driver’s license is required. Applicants must be willing and able to work outside under sometimes difficult field and environmental conditions (summer heat, rain, biting and stinging arthropods, poison ivy, etc.) while following detailed protocols for data collection. Travel to study sites with overnight stays, driving responsibilities, and competent use of a computer and other electronic equipment (including light power tools and GPS) are also required for this position. A strong applicant will demonstrate good organizational skills as well as the ability to work independently and in a group setting. This position will begin on approximately May 24, 2021. Position will end during the first half of September. Start and end dates are somewhat flexible.

Salary: $13 per hour, 40 hours per week.

To Apply: Email cover letter explaining your interests, qualifications, and dates of availability, CV/resume, and contact information for two references to Belén Muñiz at [muniz3@illinois.edu%20]muniz3@illinois.edu (please include “Summer Field Technician” in the subject line). Applications received before March 19th, 2021 will be given priority consideration; however, this position will remain open until filled.

The official job posting can be found in the link below:
Plant Pollinator Technician (Hourly) – Illinois Natural History Survey/PRI
Thank you.

NSF REU Site Program – Wetland Science in a Modern World

The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) in Alton, Illinois is now accepting applications for a newly funded National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site program, “Wetland Science in a Modern World.” During the program, students will conduct mentored research at NGRREC’s field station in Alton as well as at local field sites situated at the confluence of the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri rivers.  

The REU program runs from May 24 – August 02, 2021 and applications are due March 14. Information about the program and the online application can be found at NSF REU Site: Wetland Science in a Modern World.

Full-time paid field assistant position to work on blackbirds in Lund

at the Biology Department, Lund University (Sweden)

What do we study: We use a population of free-living blackbirds (Turdus
merula) to investigate the physiological mechanisms of partial migration,
with a focus on the immune system. At present we have just under 200
colour-ringed birds in Lund that we monitor using radio telemetry and
field observations. We use these data in combination with measurements
taken from blood samples to assess whether immune function is a cause
or consequence of partial migration.

Job description: The field assistant will work alongside other team
members to observe and recapture colour-ringed blackbirds in/around
Lund. Capture methods will include mist-nets and snap traps. The field
assistant will be responsible for making observations of colour-ringed
blackbirds in the field, helping to set up and monitor mist nets and/or
snap traps, extracting and processing birds and recording data.

Requirements: He/she must be confident with setting up mist
nets and handling/extracting a range of small passerine species
unsupervised. Experience with colour ringing and taking more detailed
biometric measurements (e.g., tarsus length, moult score), as well as
radio telemetry is desirable but not essential. Ideally, the candidate
would be available full-time for a period of 3 months between April
and July. Proficiency in English language (spoken and written) and the
ability to ride a bike are essential.

How to apply: All enquiries and applications should be sent directly
to Dr Rosie Lennon (rosie.lennon@biol.lu.se). Applications (in English)
should be sent no later than Wednesday the 24th March 2021 with the term
‘Field assistant’ as email subject line and should include:

1) CV (maximum 2 pages) with information on relevant experience
and training;

2) a brief cover letter (maximum 1 page) explaining how the applicant’s
background makes them a suitable candidate for the position.

Selected candidates will be invited to an online interview.

The Lowry Lab in the Plant Biology Department at Michigan State University
is currently looking for a field technician to conduct research on the
physiology and genetics of evolutionary adaptations in the bioenergy crop
switchgrass. The successful applicant will work with a team of other
technicians, undergraduate students, and postdocs. Applicants should send
their resume/CV and contact information for at least two references to
David Lowry at dlowry@msu.edu. The starting wage will be $17 per hour. The
successful applicant will be located at the Kellogg Biological Station in
western Michigan. This position is available now and will continue through
December 1st. More information about research in the Lowry Lab can be found
at: http://davidbryantlowry.wordpress.com/

Summer Field Research Opportunity

The University of Montana W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation is hiring full-time research technicians for summer 2021. The University of Montana is located in Missoula, Montana.

Description: These positions will assist a team of researchers and graduate students with fieldwork across the Inland Northwest, specifically on National Forests in Montana and Idaho. These positions will involve field measurements of research plots that are part of a large, long-term study of forest stand dynamics and modelling. Work will include basic tree measurements on varying terrain and in remote forested areas. This work will require the ability to navigate to and from measurement plots on and off forest roads. Multi-day overnight field stays may be required for some plot locations. This is a great opportunity to get research field experience!

Duration: Mid-May through Mid-August. The work schedule is generally four, ten-hour days per week, with flexible scheduling to accommodate travel and work in remote locations. Candidates must be flexible and willing to follow evolving COVID-19 policies and plans. We cannot accommodate pets in the field.

Pay: $13-$14 per hour depending on experience

Required Qualifications: A good attitude towards field work and field safety. Demonstrated knowledge of basic tree measurements and tree species identification. The ability to follow directions and complex protocols is a must. Must be able to navigate remote and sometimes challenging terrain in all possible weather conditions. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to operate 4×4 vehicles in a safe and professional manner. Comfort with outdoor sleeping accommodations in varying weather conditions. Comfort with remote work where cell service and internet accommodations may be spotty to non-existent. Maintaining organization and attention to detail while collecting field data is a must. Candidates must be comfortable working alone and in a team of technicians with different backgrounds. Knowledge of basic first aid is also important.

Desired Qualifications: Western tree identification skills and quality field data collection experience. Experience with forest measurement tools such as logger’s tape, clinometer, and laser rangefinders. Ability to use Map and Compass or GPS to navigate through the woods. Previous outdoor work experience will be taken into great consideration. Wilderness first aid/EMT or other applicable certifications.

Apply: We are committed to creating an environment that is safe, respectful, and inclusive to all. Please submit a single PDF file containing:

1.      Cover letter detailing your qualifications and why you would like to join our team, and which
should include your availability and planned mid-summer absences.
2.      Resume and 3 References (phone number and email for each)
3.      Applicant’s email address and phone number

to christian.mercado@umontana.edu and/or christian.mercado@umconnect.umt.edu with “Job Application” in the subject.

Application deadline: March 12th. We will review applications as received and aim to make hiring decisions by March 31st.

Subject: Summer 2021 Data Internships @ Cary Institute

Hi all, I’m pleased to share that Cary Institute is recruiting data interns for Summer 2021.

The data interns will work remotely with scientists on selected data and statistical projects, and the Director of Information Services on research data management projects. They/she/he will gain experience working with scientific data, using data management tools and statistical software, performing statistical analyses and working with structured metadata.

Please note: Internships are unpaid, although in some special cases (e.g., for grant-funded projects) compensation may be available.  We will work with academic institutions to provide credit for internships.

Full description can be found at
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies: Internships

Paid Conservation Research Internship, Summer 2021 – Amphibian Ecology and Conservation
Location: Memphis Zoo (Memphis, TN)

General Description:
Memphis Zoo’s Department of Conservation & Research is offering an internship in conservation biology. The position is available for upper-level undergraduate students and 1-2 year post-graduates. This internship offers a unique research experience in a zoo setting working with scientists conducting cutting edge and frontline projects to save wildlife, and will provide valuable training in laboratory techniques, experimental design, and data analysis for many professional careers in general biology, conservation, ecology, and veterinary sciences.

Specific Project & Internship Description:
Amidst the sixth mass extinction, amphibians are one of the most threatened groups of animals. In light of these threats, captive colonies have been established for insurance and future reintroductions. However, a critical factor that determines the success of these programs is whether captive-released individuals can adapt to natural environments. With this in mind, we will be working on research projects that investigate the reproductive biology, development, morphology, and survivorship of captive-bred amphibians at various life stages in an array of different treatments both in the lab and in the field.

Specifically, the Amphibian Ecology and Conservation Intern will work with Dr. Sinlan Poo (Research Scientist, Department of Conservation and Research). The intern will learn a variety of field and laboratory techniques, including visual encounter surveys, hormone induced spermiation/ovulation, sperm assessment, cryopreservation, captive breeding, in vitro fertilization, amphibian development and morphology assessments, and field monitoring of tadpoles and juveniles. Additionally, the intern will have the opportunity to communicate their research to the public through educational outreaches at the Zoo.

Preferred Qualifications for this Position:
Preference will be given to applicants working towards degrees in biology, zoology, animal science, reproductive physiology, or related fields. Applicants with an interest in pursuing attending graduate school or careers in reproductive sciences and conservation are strongly preferred. Other requirements include the ability to work within a diverse and inclusive team of researchers, follow instruction, and exhibit excellent oral and written skills. The intern may need to travel with their research mentor to additional work sites outside the zoo and may work unconventional hours and on weekends.

Ideal Candidate for Position:
Who should apply? Interns with the following will benefit most from this opportunity:
– A strong interest in applied conservation biology
– A particular interest in amphibian ecology
– Willingness to work long hours in the lab or field
– Ability to engage respectfully with a diverse team of collaborators
– Ability to work independently
– A general curiosity and interest in asking novel questions
– Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and positive attitude

Additional research experience is a plus, including:
– Experience with working field research in the biological sciences
– Experience with handing amphibians or other delicate animals
– Experience with laboratory techniques
– Experience with data analysis and scientific writing
– A B.S. or at least three years of college level course work in biology or a related field.

Support Provided:
1) A stipend of $9.00/hr, to a maximum stipend of $4320 for a full 12-week course, and 2) Free housing in the Memphis Zoo’s condominium located near the Zoo. The condominium has two bedrooms and houses up to four people, and interns may be required to share a bedroom with a same-sex roommate.

Duration:
This internship is full-time (40 hrs/week), and appointments are for 12 weeks. Start date is flexible for the position but a start date between May 1st and June 1st is preferred, and applicants must be able to stay for the entire 12-week period.

Materials to Submit:
Visit memphiszoo.org/careers to apply online. Please make sure to select the correct internship, as there may be several concurrent research internship postings. Materials required in the online application are (1) a cover letter describing research interests, job-related skills and life experiences, (2) CV, (3) unofficial college transcript, and (4) a list of three professional or academic references. Submit these materials as a single PDF file. Applications with incomplete materials will not be considered. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Sinlan Poo (sheilapoo@gmail.com) with “Amphibian Research Internship” in the subject line.

Application Deadline:
The application deadline is March 15th. However, applications will be considered on a rolling basis and submission window may be closed earlier if candidate is found before that date.

Application Website:
Paid Conservation Research Internship, Summer 2021 – Amphibian Ecology and Conservation

We are looking for a motivated undergraduate or recent graduate to join our team studying the pollination ecology of two federally-listed endangered plants, Apios priceana and Dalea foliosa, in Alabama and Tennessee. While both projects will involve standard investigations of mating biology, floral traits, and floral insect visitors, each project explores slightly different aspects of the pollination ecology of rare plants:

For Apios priceana, we will explore how variation in mating patterns will impact decisions for species recovery.

For Dalea foliosa, we will characterize differences in floral insect communities to give a more nuanced understanding of what type of pollinators Dalea flowers use.

This technician will work closely with a team of three researchers at Auburn University, and there will be extensive field and lab work. This position runs from May to August, and start and end dates are flexible. This technician will receive a $6000 stipend for the summer.

Past experience with pollination, plants, or insects is not necessary as all training will be provided. An ideal candidate will have:

– past field or lab experience (not course-based)
– courses in ecology
– course(s) in statistics and/or experimental design

If interested, please send a cover letter, one-page resume, and two references to Dr. Charles Ray, Auburn University Department of Entomology. Application deadline is March 1st.