We are looking for field assistants to help monitor a colour-banded population of superb fairy-wrens near Melbourne, Australia for a study on animal personalities.
Time periods: minimum 4 months between August and April (breeding season nest-searching and behavioural observations October – January, with mist-netting and testing personalities before and after breeding).
Duties include regular censusing of colour-banded birds, searching for and monitoring nests, mist-netting, behavioural observations, video analysis, and data proofing. Working days are long, with early starts six days a week. Enthusiasm, self-motivation, and a strong work ethic are a must. The study is based at Serendip Sanctuary, a small reserve on the outskirts of Melbourne.
Qualifications: experience monitoring colour-banded birds, nest-searching, and mist-netting. Must also be early riser, physically fit, able to work in extreme weather conditions, and enjoy basic shared living conditions. Onsite accommodation in a house with shared dorm-style room is provided, but assistants cover travel to the site and their own food costs. The project will reimburse up to AUD$750/mo towards receipted food and travel expenses.
For more information contact: Michelle Hall (hall.mATunimelb.edu.au). To apply, please email a letter outlining previous relevant field research experience, and a resume including names and contact information for 3 referees.
