Wetlands Restoration and Avian Ecology Research in the Mojave Desert Summer 2008 Internships with the University of California, Santa Barbara
We want to determine the availability of applicants for field internships for a regional wetlands and riparian habitat restoration project spanning southern Nevada and portions of three adjacent states. We are researching the success of past habitat restoration efforts and conducting new restoration in Mojave Desert oasis and riparian habitats, including vegetation inventory, avian and insect communities, GIS, invasive species control, prescribed fire, simulated biocontrol, and native plantings. The overall focus is vegetation and avian community inventory and research to develop more effective control of salt cedar (Tamarix spp.) and its many secondary plant invaders. The research sites are widely scattered across the Mojave Desert region, with the base of field operations in the Las Vegas (NV) area. DUTIES: Habitat inventory and research tasks emphasize plant and avian ecology, and field and office GPS/GIS applications. For field reconnaissance, interns will use field (backpack) GPS/GIS technology, including a sub-meter Trimble Pathfinder ProXT GPS unit, handheld computer, Windows Mobile 5, and ArcPad GIS software. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS: College undergraduates, recent graduates, and others, are encouraged to reply as to their availability for summer internships, with minorities especially welcome. A working knowledge and demonstrated experience in vegetation inventory, avian ecology, and/or GIS (ArcView GIS 3.3 and/or ArcGIS 9.2) are required. A background in plant ecology, ornithology, biology, botany, forestry, computer science, statistics, or a related discipline is also required, as well as experience with habitat assessment and bird and/or plant identification. Successful candidates will be expected to be conscientious self-starters capable of independent work and timely project completion. CONDITIONS: Potential applicants should be capable of vigorous physical activity (e.g., working long hours outdoors in hot, rainy, and buggy weather; able to hike with a 40-pound pack across uneven terrain). The normal work week will consist of five eight-hour days, though working longer days and weekends may be necessary. Internship positions are expected to start in May 2008 on either a seasonal or continuing basis, depending on applicant availability. Interns will be provided liability protection, free lodging, a field vehicle, and an hourly wage of $9-$16, depending on experience. Health insurance and other benefits are not included. PROJECT INVESTIGATORS: Interns will work with several project investigators, including: Matt Brooks, Ph.D., Principal Investigator and Research Ecologist, U.S. Geological Survey, Fresno, CA, and Henderson, NV Tom Dudley, Ph.D., Lead Principal Investigator and Research Biologist, UC-Santa Barbara Tom Hayes, Ph.D., Research Manager, UC-Santa Barbara APPLICATION DEADLINE: Please respond immediately, since internships are expected to start in May 2008 and will have priority in order of receipt. However, additional intern openings will be available throughout the 2.5-year project. Please direct any questions, or requests for further information, to Dr. Tom Hayes (below). Email inquiries are preferred. To indicate your availability, please send a cover letter, resume, and list of three references to: Dr. Tom Hayes. Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Telephone: 715-630-4412.
