FIELD RESEARCH ASSISTANT NEEDED FOR FOREST POLLINATOR GENETICS PROJECTS led by Dr. Jim Rivers (https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fpeople.forestry.oregonstate.edu%2Fjim-rivers%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cb5bcd9f188044f0fb11b08d6daa85c48%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636936813992379810&sdata=ARPvkhkncxGzD9jgc3zTjS2X3ILicJYjyFBUjLkRz1s%3D&reserved=0), Dr. Sara Galbraith (Post-doctoral researcher), and Rachel Zitomer (MSc. Candidate) in the College of Forestry at Oregon State University.
The objective of this research is to assess how behavior, population dynamics, and health of two native bee species are affected by management activities and stand/landscape characteristics in managed forests using cutting-edge genetic techniques, including DNA capture-recapture and DNA metabarcoding. Research assistants will work with both commercially reared and wild bee species throughout the season. Duties will consist of:
* collecting wild pollinators using a variety of techniques (netting, traps, non-lethal tissue samples)
* quantifying floral resources
* measuring plant community, environmental, and management-related variables
* monitoring solitary bees in artificial nests
* extracting pollen samples from nests and specimens
* conducting pollination experiments
* processing specimens in the lab
* entering data
Field work will take place in the rugged and scenic Coast Range of western Oregon and will involve physically demanding work in challenging conditions (heat, cold, rain, sun, steep slopes, loose rock, logging slash, stinging insects, hazardous plants), working long days (up to 12 hours), including some weekends, driving on logging roads, and navigating through difficult forest terrain.
Position will run approximately June 3-September 1, 2019; there is potential for some flexibility on start and end dates. Pay rate is $500-550/week for research assistants. Project-related transportation is provided.
Qualifications: Applicants should have a B.S. degree in entomology, animal ecology, botany, or a related field and at least 2 years of field experience (2 season-long field positions=2 years of experience). Preference will be given to candidates who are proficient with insect collection and identification, have previous experience with ecological field work, especially in challenging terrain, and/or are familiar with Oregon flora. Successful applicants will:
* be self-motivated, with a strong work ethic
* be able to carry heavy gear (30+ lbs) on steep slopes
* be able to harmoniously work and problem-solve as part of a team
* have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record
* be able to maintain a positive disposition under challenging field conditions
* have a proven track record working safely, efficiently, and cooperative manner in a team setting
To apply: Applicants should create a single PDF containing (1) a cover letter addressing the candidate’s qualifications as they relate to the specific duties described in the position description; (2) a full-length CV or resume; and (3) the names and contact information (email, telephone) of three references. This document should be emailed to Rachel Zitomer at oregonbeecrew[at]gmail[dot]com with “Pollinator Genetics Crew 2019” in the subject line. We will review applications as they are received and earlier applicants may receive more consideration.