The Mt. Graham Red Squirrel Monitoring Program seeks two research assistants to participate in population and behavioral studies on the endangered Mt. Graham red squirrel in the Pinaleño mountains in south-eastern Arizona. This isolated population of squirrels has been monitored since 1989 and we are currently conducting intensive telemetric studies to learn more about habitat use, demographics, and reproductive success. This job provides a great opportunity to hone wildlife data collection skills and contribute to a long-term research project on these endangered mammals in their unique "sky island" habitat.
More information on the Mt. Graham red squirrel and the project can be found at http://www.ag.arizona.edu/research/redsquirrel/ . Description: These are temporary positions due to start in early February 2007. The positions are each up to 6 months in duration and have potential for renewal for quality field crewmembers interested in continuing with the project into the summer and fall 2007. Work consists primarily of radiotelemetry and habitat measurement in the scenic Pinaleño Mountains of southeastern Arizona. The project website provides more information on this subspecies and the field locale. The successful applicant is expected to conduct radiotelemetry data on the space use of endangered Mt. Graham red squirrels, collect measurements of habitat characteristics, and work within the databases associated with the project. Assisting with live trapping of red squirrels and introduced Abert's squirrels may also be possible. The position requires periods of up to 10 days housed in the field without return to Tucson, necessitating excellent teamwork.
Housing in the field and transportation from Tucson to the study site will be provided, however we cannot provide housing while in Tucson during days off. Fieldwork is conducted under all weather conditions from summer heat and monsoon rains to winter snow at elevations above 9000 ft., frequently on high slopes; independence, and a tenacious work ethic are required. Duties and Responsibilities: Collection of radiotelemetry data on small mammals Collection of standard habitat classification variables Database work: enter and proof data Participation in other related field research projects as needed Familiarity with use of map and compass Attendance and participation in regular staff meetings Maintain and safeguard personally assigned and project equipment Assist in routine maintenance of biology research camp facilities Participate in day-to-day operations to include: purchasing, errands, etc.
Completion of necessary University safety courses and certifications Qualifications: Minimum Qualifications: One year of laboratory/research, field research, technical maintenance or archaeological experience, OR; Any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education approved by Human Resources A valid state driver's license during period of employment Preferred Qualifications: In addition to above: Bachelors degree in wildlife science, biology or related discipline Experience with radiotelemetry under boreal forest field conditions Ability to manage and navigate a PC-based computer database Experience with behavioral observation of small mammals under natural conditions Experience with live trapping and marking of small mammals Experience with habitat analyses, especially circular plot sampling in forested environments Experience in field studies with threatened/endangered species Please go to: https://www.uacareertrack.com and search for job # 36640 Research/Laboratory Assistant to apply. Applications are only accepted online through the uacareertrack website. Salary will be $9.49 per hour and the position will be open until filled. For more information please contact : Melissa Merrick mmerrick@email.arizona.edu Mount Graham Biology Programs University of Arizona School of Natural Resources Biological Sciences Building East, Rm.325 Tucson, AZ 85721 Phone: 520-624-6439 Fax: 520-740-0143 Start Date: 2/12/07