The Belovsky Lab has paid positions available this summer to assist with
their long-term (30+ years) experimental project in Montana grasslands
(NSF: LTREB). This study uses field experiments to understand how food and
predators influence grasshopper behavior and ecology in combination with
varying climate. Field assistants/interns will help with the field portion
of this project on the National Bison Range, Moiese, MT.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The position is 90% + field work. Assistants
will help set up (assemble, catch grasshoppers and stock experiments),
monitor, and take down experiments. Daily work will include monitoring
grasshopper densities in the experiments, maintaining experimental cages,
and sampling vegetation and soils. Assistants will gain experience with a
wide variety of ecological field techniques, including insect enclosures,
soil nutrient manipulation experiments, quantification of herbivore damage
and plant growth, and insect behavior. Assistants also will learn relevant
principles of experimental and sampling design in field ecology, as well as
identification of key insects and plants in Palouse Prairie grasslands.
QUALIFICATIONS:
. Completion of or pursuing a degree in ecology, biology, entomology,
conservation biology or related field.
. Capacity to learn identification of grasshoppers and Palouse Prairie
flora, including grasses. Previous field experience with plants and
insects is preferred, but not required.
. Hard-working, highly motivated, ability to accurately collect data, keep
meticulous records, and pay close attention to detail while performing
repetitive tasks; ability to work independently as wells as contribute to a
positive group dynamic.
. Must be willing to work outside for long periods in unpredictable weather
and conditions, some heavy lifting is required. Also, the ability to deal
with a flexible work schedule (i.e., work around weather conditions and
phenology of grasshoppers).
APPLICATION DETAILS:
2 positions: One position starts May 15 and ends September 30, 2017.
Second position starts Aug 1 and ends Sept 30, 2017. Shared housing is
provided near the research site, as well as a stipend of approximately
$1200/mo. Travel to/from Montana is not provided.
By March 20, please send letter of interest, resume and contact information
for 3 references (name, position, phone, e-mail) to Jennifer Belovsky by
e-mail belovsky.2@nd.edu.
Hiring is through the University of Notre Dame. The University of Notre
Dame is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
For more information visit the Belovsky labpage – –