2 FULL-TIME UNDERGRADUATE FIELD RESEARCH ASSISTANTS NEEDED FOR FOREST POLLINATOR RESEARCH IN THE FOREST ANIMAL ECOLOGY LAB AT OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to contribute to research on wild bumble bee populations and movement in the Oregon Coast Range. The objective of this research is to assess how behavior, population dynamics, and health of native bumble bees are affected by stand and landscape characteristics in managed forests using cutting-edge genetic capture-recapture techniques. We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate who is motivated to gain experience collecting ecological data and sampling insects. This is a great opportunity for students interested in ecology, entomology, botany, and/or forest research. Position dates are June 11-August 22, 2021 (some flexibility in start and end dates may be possible).

Position Duties: 

• Collecting wild pollinators using a variety of techniques (netting, traps, non-lethal tissue samples) 
• Identifying native and exotic flowering plant species 
• Measuring plant community, environmental, and management-related variables 
• Labeling and organizing sampled specimens 
• Entering data 

 

At least 80% of work hours will be in the field. 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, including some weekends, driving on logging roads, and navigating through difficult forest terrain.

Applicants should be working towards a B.S. degree in entomology, animal ecology, botany, forestry, or a related field.

Successful applicants will: 

• Meet minimum eligibility requirements for student employment (Meet minimum eligibility requirements for student employment ) 
• Be self-motivated, with a strong work ethic 
• Be able to carry heavy gear (30+ lbs) on steep slopes 
• Have a valid driverÃf¢ÒÂEURÃ’Â(tm)s license and clean driving record 
• Be able to maintain a positive disposition under challenging field conditions 
• Be able to work safely, efficiently, and cooperatively in a team setting 
• Have excellent communication and organizational skills 
• Complete CPR/First Aid Certification prior to official start date (coordinated and paid for by employer) 

 

Preference will be given to candidates who are proficient with insect collection and identification, have previous experience with ecological field work, and/or are familiar with Oregon flora.

Apply here: Apply here 

 

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