mardi 17 juin 2008

Postdoctoral position

Avian Biologist/Ecologist
Avian Ecology Research Opportunity

Institutional Affiliation: University of Washington, Animal Behavior Program

Funding: Division of Fish and Wildlife, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Location: Rota, Northern Mariana Islands

Job Description: Looking for postdoctoral-level individual to conduct research on the Mariana crow and Rota bridled white-eye on the island of Rota in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). Nearly all forest bird species on this small 86 sq km island located in the Pacific are experiencing declines. There is funding through the CNMI Division of Fish and Wildlife to continue Mariana crow and Rota bridled white-eye population ecology research, and similar research on associated native forest birds. The research is located on the island of Rota, near Guam and part of the CNMI. The Mariana Crow is endemic to Rota and Guam. It has been almost extirpated from Guam due to the Brown Tree Snake.

Qualifications: Must have a Ph.D. in relevant field (Biology, Wildlife, etc). This research will require spending approximately 9 months/year on the island catching, banding, radio-tracking, and monitoring birds, and supervising students (undergraduate and graduate). The postdoctoral candidate will also be expected to contribute to reports to US FWS, data analyses, grant-writing and publication in collaboration with the PI and Co-PI. This is a physically challenging position on a remote island and will require a highly motivated individual. Housing conditions are good on the island, but the fieldwork conditions are rough. Thus, candidates must have good physical ability to tolerate the rough terrain and temperature/humidity. Individuals with allergies to wasps/bees should be aware that they are prevalent in some areas of the island and medical care on the island is limited. This position requires that you be a team player as research will be coordinated through the Principal Investigators, the US FWS and the CNMI DFW. The candidate must possess a valid driver's license.

Preferred knowledge, skills and abilities include a working knowledge of crows or similar species, radio-tracking experience, experience with avian field techniques, background in conservation biology, public outreach experience, and experience with supervision, training and coordination of field staff, students and volunteers.

This project has tremendous long-term research potential, as most of the native bird species are endemic to either Rota or the immediate archipelago. The initial funding is available through the local CNMI DFW from now-September 30, 2009, and there is a strong potential for continued funding. The start date is dependent on logistical arrangements. Shared housing will be provided if desired. A vehicle will be provided for the project, so it will not be necessary to ship a vehicle to the island.

To Apply: Send your C.V., letter of application stating your qualifications and interests, and three letters of recommendation to the e-mail or snail-mail address below.

Salary: based on experience
Last Date to Apply: July 31, 2008

Contact: Renee Robinette Ha, Ph.D.
University of Washington
Animal Behavior Program
Box 351525
Seattle, WA 98195
E-mail: robinet@u.washington.edu (Preferred)
Phone: 206-685-2380 (checked infrequently)

The University of Washington is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.