We will be hiring three individuals for an NSF-funded project that will investigate the mechanisms responsible for differences in the annual schedules of a common songbird, the dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis carolinensis). Our experiment will test if environmental factors during early development influence variation in the seasonal schedules of adults. This experiment will include hand-rearing junco nestlings that will occur 16 to 22 hours daily throughout the field season. A greater understanding of timing mechanisms will help predict adaptability and resilience of populations in rapidly changing environments.
This position will include both field work and lab work in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Field work will involve searching for and monitoring nests to recover nestlings for experimental procedures. Nest searching will include hiking long distances, scouring vegetation, and following protocols for aging nestlings. Mist netting and banding may be utilized to identify parents. A main and difficult focus of this experiment will be hand-rearing the nestlings in brooders within a light controlled setting. Each captive nestling will need to be fed every 30 minutes throughout their respective “day lengths”. The work schedule will involve long hours for 6-7 days a week that will be challenging but fun. This will include shift hours that may begin as early as 3 a.m. or end as late as 1 a.m., but typically shifts will not continue for more than 8 consecutive hours. ~40-50 hr/week.
Qualifications
• Student or Bachelor’s degree preferred in Biology, Environmental Science, Animal Behavior, or related field
• Bird handling experience required, field work experience preferred
• Able and willing to work long and odd hours
• Applicants must enjoy working outdoors (even in bad weather), be self-motivated, able to work closely with others and live respectfully in shared housing
• Excellent physical condition. Capable of hiking on rugged and rocky terrain.
• Personal vehicle encouraged but not required
• Valid U.S. Driver’s License
• Must pass federal background check
Salary
$2,400/month. Food and lodging provided
Start Date
04/30/2020