We have an REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) opening for a motivated student to take part in an NSF-funded study examining the effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on tropical hummingbirds and pollination services. In collaboration with project scientists, the student will have the opportunity to develop a field research project nested within broader project goals. This position is an excellent opportunity for a student interested in ecology, conservation biology, pollination and/or ornithology to gain valuable field experience (e.g., hummingbird banding, hummingbird movement tracking and pollination ecology techniques). University credit may be available for research activities.
The field portion of the work will take place during February and March 2014 at the Las Cruces Biological Station, Costa Rica (http://www.ots.ac.cr/index.php? option=com_content&task=view&id=220&Itemid=422 ). The student will receive a stipend of $500/week for 8 weeks. Lodging and travel are provided. There is some flexibility with start and end dates. Applicant requirements: (1) Third or fourth year university student currently enrolled in ecology, wildlife or related discipline in the United States, (2) Ability to function independently in the field and academically, (3) Physical ability to traverse difficult terrain, navigate in dense forest, and be safe when working alone in isolated, rugged terrain, (4) GPA >3.0. For special consideration: (5) Previous experience in field biology, particularly botany and/or ornithology, (6) Desire to conduct graduate- level research in ecology, (7) Spanish, (8) Statistical knowledge. To apply: For full consideration, send a letter of interest, resume and contact information (email and phone number) for three references to Dr. Matt Betts ([email protected]) or Dr. Adam Hadley ([email protected]) by Dec 15, 2013. For questions regarding the application process, contact Adam Hadley by email. For more information on the Betts Lab: http://www.fsl.orst.edu/flel/
