Employer: UC Berkeley

Description:Field assistants are needed for ongoing
long-term studies of the behavioral ecology of the cooperatively
breeding Acorn Woodpecker at the Hastings Reserve in upper Carmel
Valley, California. Hastings is run by the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology,
UC Berkeley. We have studied the behavioral ecology of color-banded
Acorn Woodpeckers for over 40 years at this site. The current research
focuses on ecological constraints and reproductive skew and the role
each plays in the evolution of cooperative breeding. Assistants will be
involved in monitoring group composition, experimental manipulations,
and roosting/nesting/mate guarding/feeding behavior. The experience is
designed to be one of total immersion six days per week. Positions run
from mid-Mar to mid-Jul 2010 (with some flexibility on start and end
dates).

Must be an avid hiker who is comfortable hiking up and down hills. Prior
experience with birds (especially the ability to read color bands) is
desirable but not required. Self-motivation, enthusiasm for the research
questions, a willingness to sit in a blind for up to 3 hours per session
(in hot weather with annoying face flies), and an ability to tackle the
rigors of field work are a must.

We especially encourage those
applicants interested in behavioral ecology that are planning to attend
graduate school.

Location: Carmel Valley

Qualifications:

Misc: For further information - and to see whether the positions have been
filled, please consult our employment web site (URL:
http://www.ericlwalters.org/employment.htm).

Documents: Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and the
positions will remain open until filled. If interested, apply sooner
rather than later. Our positions usually fill quickly. Please include
the following in your application: a resumé (one page resumés are
discouraged - please provide detailed descriptions of your academic,
volunteer, and professional experiences); a cover letter describing why
you should be considered for one of our positions; the names, phone
numbers, and email addresses of at least three academic / professional
references (preferably ones familiar with your ability to conduct field
work); and the dates you are available to work at the Hastings Reserve.

Applications should be sent
as attachments by email to DR. ERIC L. WALTERS (EM:
jobs2010@cavitynester.org).

Address:

Website: http://www.ericlwalters.org/employment.htm

Salary: $600 / month

Benefits: free housing is provided

Deadline: January 04, 2010