mardi 4 mars 2014

FIELD TRAINEE

needed in fulltime for monitoring and catching breeding passerines at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology. 
Website: http://www.orn.mpg.de/159079/Research_Group_Dingemanse 

Location: Seewiesen, Bayern, Germany. 

Job description: 
The field Trainee will help collect breeding and behavioural data on Great Tits (Parus major) from approximately mid-March 2014 to end of July 2014. The research focuses primarily on identifying how natural and sexual selection act on animal personalities and behavioural plasticity. The trainee will work closely with a large, international team consisting of several post-docs, PhD and Master students, as well as other trainees. Field work is physically demanding, and involves walking over hilly terrain for long days outdoors in all weather conditions. The breeding season is intense and with typically only 1 day off per week. Duties include behavioural observations, nest monitoring, bird handling, data entry and data management. 

Qualifications/Experience: 
Candidates should study Biology or a related field. We are especially interested in candidates with experience in independent bird handling (preferably with small passerines), including ringing and measuring. Ideal candidates are highly motivated, well organized, while at the same time, able to function well in a big group. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and be experienced in operating vehicles with manual transmission. Non-EU candidates are not eligible for this position (Swiss and UK citizens are eligible). A small financial compensation and housing in shared accommodation will be provided. The accepted assistant should be vaccinated against Tick Borne Encephalitis (TBE or FSME) before arriving in Seewiesen. Applicants should also be aware that Lyme disease (carried by ticks) is prevalent in the area and should inform themselves about this disease beforehand. In an effort to employ more people with disabilities, the Max-Planck-Society specifically encourages people with disabilities to apply for the position. 

Applications: Due to late announcement, review of the applications will begin immediately and applications received until the end of the week will receive full consideration. To apply, please send (1) a statement of relevant experience, (2) a short resume or CV, and (3) contact information for two references to Alexia Mouchet (eMail: amouchet@orn.mpg.de).