Position: Field Research Leader Location: Guam and Northern Mariana Islands
Appointment: 10-12 months, starting early February 2015, with potential for annual renewal 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 Guam’s 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. Job description: The Field Research Leader will lead the Ecology of Bird Loss Project research efforts in the Mariana Islands. He/she will manage a crew of ~7 field technicians and interns located across the three islands. Fieldwork will involve long-term plant survival experiments, forest inventories in intact and degraded plots, plant propagation, and observation of fruit-frugivore interactions. The position will likely be based on Saipan (Guam is a possibility) but will involve travel to other islands. The field research leader will be responsible for implementing research protocols, training new employees, scheduling day-to-day field tasks, assisting in the development of field methods, managing data, and communicating frequently with project leadership based in the mainland US. Qualifications: We are seeking an exceptionally motivated individual with demonstrated skills in managing a field crew and executing a complex research project. This includes hiring, delegating responsibility, training employees in research techniques, providing feedback to employees, as well as developing protocols and ensuring protocols are being followed in the field, and identifying and resolving methodological issues in the field. The field research leader must possess a strong background in plant ecology, independent decision-making abilities, excellent communication and organizational skills, and cultural sensitivity. Applicants must have completed an undergraduate or Masters degree (preferred) in a relevant discipline. Research in the Mariana Islands involves working in high heat and humidity, and walking over rough terrain sometimes carrying heavy and awkward loads (i.e. rolls of chicken wire, flats of seedlings, water). Successful applicants must learn to identify trees (including seedlings) quickly and accurately. Experience identifying birds by sight and sounds is preferred 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. A sense of humor is always appreciated. Payment and benefits: The salary is $2600-$3200 per month, depending on experience and housing preferences. We will provide a round-trip ticket from the candidate’s current place of residence to Saipan and housing during travel away from Saipan. The position is eligible for health and welfare benefit plans (medical and dental insurance, life insurance, etc.) and retirement plans. Details are available at http://www.hrs.iastate.edu/hrs/benefits. Application procedure: To apply, email a single pdf document containing a cover letter, CV, and contact information for 3 references to Dr. Haldre Rogers (hal...@iastate.edu). The subject line should read “EBL Field Research Leader Application”. The cover letter should describe your previous research experience, career goals, and why you are interested in this position. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but to ensure full consideration, applications should be submitted by December 4, 2015. For more information, contact Dr. Haldre Rogers (hal...@iastate.edu).
