Position: Forest ecology interns (4) Location: Mariana Islands (Guam, Saipan, Rota)
Appointment: 9 months, starting either January 15 or March 1, 2015 Project Description: Nearly all native seed dispersers have been extirpated from the island of Guam, largely due to predation by the invasive Brown Treesnake. The Ecology of Bird Loss Project (www.ecologyofbirdloss.org) aims to determine the full impact of seed disperser loss on Guams forests including impacts on individual species and to forest structure and the potential for different dispersers, both native and non-native, to restore function. Our research examines the ecological role of seed dispersers through comparisons of dynamics on Guam to those on nearby islands (Rota and Saipan) where birds are present. Duties of the interns: Interns will participate in a variety of field research endeavors including long-term plant survival experiments, forest inventories in intact and degraded plots, plant propagation, and observation of fruit-frugivore interactions. Two positions will be based on Saipan and two will be based on Guam, but all positions may involve travel to other islands. Specific duties may include: mapping and identifying trees (including seedlings), collecting seeds, propagating plants in a nursery, planting and monitoring seedlings, extended direct observation of interactions with fruiting trees, and entering data. Field crews work 8-10 hours a day, 5-6 days a week. Interns must be able to commit to working on the project from mid- January through mid-October or early March to late November. Requirements: The successful applicant must be able to pay attention to detail, work well individually and as part of a group, and be flexible. Research in the Mariana Islands involves working in high heat and humidity, walking over rough terrain sometimes carrying heavy and awkward loads (i.e. rolls of chicken wire, flats of seedlings, water), and tolerating the tedious, and at times monotonous, work necessary for all scientific endeavors. Successful applicants must learn how to identify trees (including seedlings) quickly and accurately. Experience identifying birds by sight and sounds is preferred for the two Saipan positions, but not required. If a candidate is allergic to bees, he/she must carry a bee sting kit and be trained in its use, as the chances of getting stung are high. Relevant field experience and prior independent research experience is desired. The intern must be a US citizen with a valid US driver's license. Payment and benefits: Interns will receive valuable research experience in the field of conservation biology and field ecology a great way to both determine whether graduate school in the life sciences is for you and to gain the necessary experience for a competitive application to graduate school. Successful applicants will also receive a round-trip ticket from any major airport in the US to Saipan or Guam, housing on all islands, transportation to and from field sites, and a monthly stipend of $600. To apply: Email a single pdf document including a cover letter, resume, and contact information for 3 references to Dr. Evan Fricke (ecfri...@iastate.edu). The subject line should read EBL Intern Position. The cover letter should describe your previous research experience, career goals, and why you are interested in this position. In addition, please indicate whether you are applying for the January 15-October 15 or March 1-November 30 position. Applications must be submitted by 8 pm EST on December 7, 2015. For more information, contact Dr. Evan Fricke (ecfri...@iastate.edu).
