The Prior Lab at Binghamton University SUNY (priorecologylab.com) is seeking to hire a summer field assistant for the spring and summer of 2017. The assistant will work collaboratively as a part of a team on a project examining how host plants and parasitoids influence the invasion of a phytophagous insect (a gall-forming wasp). The work will be located at multiple field sites in southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia and in Washington State (around Olympia). The assistant will live with the field team in provided housing on Vancouver Island, BC and will camp for several days at a time while working in Washington State.
Duties will involve daily travel to and from field sites, establishing and maintaining field experiments, collecting, sorting and rearing insects, conducting surveys of trees and insects, and data entry and processing. Given the nature of conducting time-sensitive observations and experiments in the field, the work schedule will be flexible, and work hours will depend on when tasks need to be completed and on weather conditions. The candidate should like to spend time outdoors, be able to hike for long distances in hilly terrain, be able to spend long hours in the field and be willing to camp for several nights at a time. Qualifications: 1) A Bachelors degree (or working towards) in biology, ecology & evolution, entomology, or a related field. 2) Previous field research experience (experience working remotely at a field site or station is a plus, but not a requirement). 3) Have an interest in ecology & evolution or entomology. 4) Be highly responsible, flexible, dedicated, and motivated. 5) Be able to work well as a part of a team and to live and work well with others. 6) Be willing and able to work long irregular hours outside in remote conditions. 7) Be able to hike long distances and in hilly terrain. 8) Must have a drivers license and a passport. Accommodations will be provided in a shared residence on southern Vancouver Island. A field vehicle will also be provided. Ideal work dates from May 1st July 31st. A monthly stipend (amount depending on experience) will be provided. To apply send a cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position and listing your relevant qualifications, a CV or resume, and the names and contact information (email and phone number) for three references. Review of the position will begin immediately, and please apply before March 1st for full consideration. Please email application to Kirsten Prior (kpr...@binghamton.edu) with Application for field assistant position in the subject line.
