The University of California - Berkeley and Merced are accepting applications for field ecology summer research assistant positions in the Rockies.
Full-time field technician positions are available through the University of California - Berkeley and Merced. Approximately May - October 2012
We are seeking field technicians and crew to lead in an experiment studying the effects of global warming on treeline dynamics. The work will take place at the University of Colorado Mountain Research Station at Niwot Ridge, near Boulder, Colorado. The successful applicants will monitor subalpine tree seedling germination and survival in experimental forest and alpine field sites, document naturally-occurring recruitment and demography patterns, collect and sow seeds, and assist with other duties such as watering treatments, infrastructure support, and data entry.
Education/Experience: The positions will provide great experience for any individual interested in high elevation plant ecology and climate change. Strong applicants will either be currently enrolled in or have graduated from a program in forestry, ecology and evolution, environmental science, botany, or a related field. And they will have knowledge of Rocky Mountain forest systems and species. Ability to enjoy long days of repetitive but meaningful work is strongly desired.
Applicants must have proven experience in working and living well with others, be highly organized, responsible, and attentive to detail. We require technicians with a high level of physical fitness, who are not afraid of hard work, and have a sincere interest in ecological field research.
Conditions: Applicants must be enthusiastic about and capable of carrying a pack with equipment, working and hiking at high elevations (up to 11,500'). Candidates will be required to provide their own personal field gear. Successful candidates must be able to be fully alert and organized by 7am and to work long hours in often inclement weather. Snow is likely, and rain and high winds are inevitable. Field work may be cut short by weather on some days, but go longer on other days.
Pay: $12-16/hour depending on experience, plus lodging at the Mountain Research Station.
To Apply: Complete applications should include a cover letter (indicating available dates), a resume, transcripts (unofficial ok), and two letters of recommendation. Submit application materials to Dr.
Cristina Castanha (ccastanha@lbl.gov). All application materials should clearly indicate your name and the position (Niwot Field Assistant).
Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. We expect that to have selected our crew by end February or early March. Start/End dates may be flexible. Contact Cristina via email with additional questions.
Please also contact us for information regarding research opportunities for Graduate Students and Science Teachers, as well as employment with the infrastructure support crew. Contact Dr. Castanha or any of the project PIs: Lara Kueppers (UC Merced), Margaret Torn (UC Berkeley and Lawrence Berkeley National Lab), John Harte (UC Berkeley), Jeff Mitton (CU Boulder), or Matt Germino (USGS, Boise, ID).
