Volunteer field assistant positions Plant-pollinator interactions in the Rocky Mountains
Location: Beartooth Plateau in southern Montana; Montana State University, Bozeman, MT Dates: Early June through late August exact starting and ending dates are flexible Job description: Field assistants (2-3) will be taking part in a graduate research project based out of Montana State University. We aim to investigate variability in plant-pollinator interactions and ecosystem services in alpine tundra meadows of the Beartooth Plateau, one of the largest land masses above 10,000ft in the US. Duties will primarily include (i) observing plant-pollinator interactions and hand netting insects, (ii) pinning and processing pollinator samples, (iii) censusing alpine flowering plant communities, and (iv) maintaining field notes and data entry. Expenses and equipment relevant to field work (food, tents, etc.) will be covered. Qualifications: This position is ideal for undergraduates or recent graduates looking to gain ecological field experience, especially if interested in pursuing graduate studies in the future. Applicants must be comfortable with handling stinging bees and insects. Previous experience identifying insects and/or plants is desirable but not required. Requirements of the position include hiking over variable terrain while carrying field equipment and being comfortable working in remote areas with no services while spending up to 6 days at a time in the field. Weather can be highly variable; freezing temperatures, rain, hail, snow, heat, high winds, and thunderstorms are all possibilities. Applications: Please send a cover letter explaining your interest in the position, a CV, and contact information (phone & email) for at least 2 references to Mike Simanonok at michael.simano...@msu.montana.edu. Applications will be evaluated as they are received; please apply by March 31st for full consideration.
