Project title Demographic and Physiological Monitoring of the Colorado Checkered Whiptail: An Integrated Conservation Approach
Drs. Lise Aubry at Colorado State University and Susannah French at Utah State University are recruiting a field crew leader / research scientist to work on the general viability of the Colorado checkered whiptail, a nearly threatened species found in Western Colorado. This project is funded by the Department of Defense ‘DOD’ and field work will take place on DOD lands in Colorado (Fort Carson and Pinyon Canyon maneuvering sites). Preliminary mark-recapture and physiology data have been collected and our goal is to better inform the general health of this species by estimating local population abundance, seasonal immunity and stress in relation to body condition and reproductive state across landscape features and maneuvering activities. This will help DOD managers identify at risk sub- populations on the ground and implement conservation strategies accordingly. Position description The field crew leader / research scientist will be tasked with leading field work efforts and managing 4 field and 2 lab technicians. The selected candidate will partake in built-up a data monitoring plan with the potential to address long-term viability questions through the estimation of survival, clutch size, and overall reproductive success. The position would be a good fit for someone with interests in applied population ecology and ecophysiology, and with substantial reptile field experience. If interested, the research scientist will be given flexibility within the basic parameters of this project to address questions pertaining to whiptail occupancy dynamics, viability, life history trade-offs, and fitness costs of immunity and stress in the wild, amongst other themes. Application Please send a detailed CV, copy of unofficial transcripts, GRE scores, cover letter, and contact information for 3 references to Lise Aubry ([email protected]) with subject line CCW research position by November 15th 2017. We will begin to review applications in mid-November. Position will be filled for A 9-month period starting March 1st 2018 (negotiable), with potential for extension. The research scientist will be based in Fort Collins, home to Colorado State University, which offers a vibrant community of scientists, conservationists, bikers, and beer enthusiasts alike (amongst other interesting phenotypes). The candidate will be hosted with the Aubry Lab, now part of the Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology department. Minimum Qualifications • M.S. in population ecology, wildlife ecology, biology, or related fields. • Knowledge of amphibian ecology and experience with amphibian monitoring. • Experience with field crew management and logistics. • Experience with mark-recapture field technics, modeling, and lab assays is appreciated. • Excellent verbal and written communication skills to facilitate a collaborative research environment and dissemination of results in scientific outlets. Benefits The salary range is approximately $40,000 - $50,000 with benefits depending on qualifications and other factors. This is a 9-month appointment with potential for extension based on the scope of the applicant’s interests and contingent on funding. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding affirmative action requirements. The Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity is located in 101 Student Services. To assist Colorado State University in meeting its affirmative action responsibilities, ethnic minorities, women, and other protected class members are encouraged to apply and to so identify themselves.
