An Ecologist is needed to assist with dendrochronological sampling and analysis for aspen woodlands in the mountains of northern Nevada as a part of a project to assess aspen dynamics in relation to aspen-associated bird communities. Opportunity for involvement in all stages of research, including planning and logistics, data management and queries, advanced analyses and model building, presentations, and writing publications. The position is located in Boise, ID and is part of the USGS, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Snake River Field Station. Applicant should have substantial dendrochronology experience, including collecting tree cores using an increment borer, laboratory techniques, and analysis. The position will also require some general vegetation sampling. Desired experience also includes the use of geographic information systems (GIS), advanced statistical software (e.g., SAS), and database applications (e.g., ACCESS). Also desired is an understanding of forest and woodland disturbance ecology, and multivariate statistical methods. Applicant should be willing to spend much of the field season (June through early September) in the field, including 8-10 day stretches of camping at remote sites. Must be able to use GPS and topo maps for navigation. Experience with ATVs is a plus. The ecologist will be responsible for field-season logistics, conducting sampling, and overseeing the work of 2 field technicians doing the same. Field conditions involve exposure to wind, dust, extreme heat and cold, and hiking at high elevations (5,000 10,00 feet).
Qualifications: Minimum qualification is a M.S. or equivalent in Ecology or related field and at least 3 months of job-related field experience in dendrochronology and vegetation sampling; also requires skills in data management, interpretation, and analysis as indicated above. The position is open to U.S. citizens; veterans preferences apply. Salary: Approximate monthly salary is $3900. Expected Start Date: early June 2010 Length of Position: One year initial appointment, plus probable extension of 6 months; possibility of further extension of another 4-6 months dependent on funding. How to apply: Position closes February 8. Applicants must apply via the www.usajobs.gov website. Search on Job Announcement Number: WR-2010-0158. Please also feel free to send an inquiry to Dr. Douglas Shinneman at [email protected] so that I can keep you apprised of the application process.
