vendredi 11 novembre 2011

VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANT POSITION, Shorebirds, The Netherlands

Hiring Organization:
University of Groningen

Date Posted:
2011-11-09

Position Description:
Volunteers are needed from 10 March to 15 May 2012 for an ongoing capture-recapture program on the Ruffs, Philomachus pugnax. The project is under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Theunis Piersma, head of the Animal Ecology Group of the University of Groningen. Our current research aims to better understand demographic and ecological processes playing a role in the ongoing decline of the population Ruffs using the Netherlands during migratory stopover. The fieldwork consists in the monitoring of colour-banded birds in Southwest Friesland, a characteristic Dutch meadow area in the north of The Netherlands. We collect data on the timing of migration, habitat use, phenotype characteristics, feeding and reproductive behaviour of the birds; but you will also assist with the banding of the birds, blood sampling, and data entry. Volunteers and students involved will live together in our field station in a small village along the shore of Lake IJsselmeer.
Qualifications/Experience:
We are seeking highly motivated people, happy to spend long days in the field, social and able to work in team. Interested applicants should be however, independent, well organized and able to maintain a professional attitude. A driver license is required.
Command of Dutch or Frisian is not necessary ;-) Applicants willing to improve their spoken English are encouraged to apply (this is an excellent opportunity to improve!). But note that a good understanding is required.
Salary/funding:
None
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
We provide housing and all field equipment. Volunteers must pay own airfare and food expenses (3-4 Euros per day). A refund of flight cost might be possible (depending on pending grant applications).

Term of Appointment:
From 10 March 2011 to 15 May 2012. Commitment for the all period is required.

Application Deadline:
We will begin reviewing applications from 1th January 2012 and continue until position is filled.

Comments:
Please send a resume/CV (keep it to relevant details), a cover letter (interests, career goals, relevant experience for the position and availability) and at least one reference .

Contact Information:
Lucie SCHMALTZ [l.schmaltz@rug.nl] – PhD student, Animal Ecology Group, University of Groningen.
Centre for Life Sciences, Nijenborgh 7 - 9747 AG GRONINGEN
E-mail Address:
L.Schmaltz@rug.nl
Website:
http://www.rug.nl/biologie/onderzoek/onderzoekgroepen/dieroecologie/onderzoek/researchstudies/