Fieldwork Research Assistant

Two field assistants are needed to work on a PhD thesis project in Reserva Miraflor, Esteli, Nicaragua from April-November 2005, with a minimum 2 1/2 month commitment. The goal of the project is to examine the effects of habitat choice on population dynamics in a forest-agriculture landscape through a comparison of habitat preference in three species of Neotropical wrens. Field assistant duties will include capture and banding of birds, territory and spot mapping, nest searching and monitoring, behavioral observations, insect and vegetation sampling, and radio telemetry. Experience with these methods is preferred.
The field site is located in the semi montane semi deciduous forest-agriculture landscape of Reserva Miraflor. Conditions are rustic, and include both hot and cold weather, lots of rain, ticks, chiggers, mosquitoes, biting flies, snakes, the occasional wild cat, and no electricity or running water. Field work will include strenuous hiking, often off trail, clearing land with a machete, and long 10-12 hr days. A positive attitude and the ability to cope with tough and exhausting conditions is a must. Applicants must be able to work independently with a high level of responsibility. The reserve is located 2hrs by bus from the city of Esteli, with access to hospital, telephone, fax, and internet services, as well as various forms of entertainment. Preference will be given to those with a degree in biology or related field, as well as to those with prior research experience in the tropics or other field settings. Spanish proficiency is preferred, but not required, and Esteli has many intensive Spanish language courses available. Food and lodging will be provided, as well as in-country travel expenses, but international travel is not. Please send a cover letter describing why you are interested in this project, dates of availability, resume, description of previous research experience and the names and contact information for three references to:
Melissa Mark, 650 Life Sciences Bldg SUNY Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5245, melissa@life.bio.sunysb.edu. Fax: 631-632-7626. Applications by email or fax are acceptable. Deadline for application is Feb 08, 2005, but earlier applications will be evaluated when they are received, and positions may be filled early. Please email me if you have any questions.