VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANTS (5) NEEDED FOR RESEARCH IN AUSTRALIA.

We are studying dispersal behavior and gene flow in the fragmented Eucalyptus
woodlands of SE Australia. Volunteers are needed from mid-July through
November 2006 to assist with field work on the brown treecreeper
(Climacteris picumnus), a small cooperatively breeding passerine bird that
is endemic to Australia. Duties will include: mistnetting, banding, and
blood sampling adults and juveniles; intensive radiotracking of dispersing
yearlings; and conducting behavioral observations of color-banded birds. The
majority of the work will be conducted in temperate eucalypt woodland near
Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, but additional sites will be visited further
north in New South Wales. Applicants must be in good physical condition
(there will be lots of walking and hill climbing while carrying a diverse
array of gear), capable of working independently, and willing to work long
hours with one day off per week. Prior experience with mistnetting,
behavioral observation, radiotracking, and data entry will be beneficial but
not required. An enthusiasm for scientific research (particularly in the
areas of behavioral ecology and/or conservation biology), a keen desire to
experience Australia's unique environments, and the ability to live and work
well with diverse individuals are absolutely essential. This will be an
excellent opportunity for recent graduates to gain experience conducting
field research before proceeding on to graduate study. Volunteers will need
to provide their own transportation to Canberra, Australia. Room and board
will be provided along with a small stipend. Send a brief letter of
introduction, a 2-page CV, and contact information for 3 references via
e-mail (preferred) to Erik.Doerr@csiro.au or via snail-mail to DRS. ERIK and
VERONICA DOERR, CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems, GPO Box 284, Canberra, ACT
2601 AUSTRALIA. Review of applications will begin on 31 March.