[ECOLOG-L] Plant Ecology field/lab volunteer position with USGS, Hawaii

[Stephanie Yelenik]

This volunteer position starts Sept 1, 2015 and lasts 6 months with the
possibility of extension; housing and per diem are provided. We are
looking for a motivated and independent intern with field/lab experience
to work on a project in mid-elevation mesic forest on Hawaii Island
relating to invasive plants, native birds, and ecosystem restoration. In
particular, the work focuses on how plant-soil interactions and bird
dispersal of native seed affect native understory regeneration in Acacia
koa reforestation projects, therefore previous experience with
plant/soil sampling and labwork is desirable. Field responsibilities
include: collecting plant survey data, maintaining and collecting
seedrain traps, outplanting experimental plants, collecting plant foliar
and litter samples, soil coring. Field sites are in Hakalau Forest
National Wildlife Refuge at 5000-7000 ft elevation and may be cold and
wet OR hot and dry depending on time of year. Must be able to work
outdoors in all weather conditions, hike over rough terrain long
distances carrying field gear, navigate using GPS/compass, and drive a
4x4 automatic vehicle on unpaved roads. Lab responsibilities include:
grinding plant material, soil sieving, soil extractions, data entry,
processing seed rain samples, processing bird fecal samples for seed.
Compensation is $1040/month per diem and housing is provided in Hawaii
Volcanoes National Park, or at Hakalau depending on field schedule;
transportation provided to and from work and to Hilo for supplies.
Airfare is only provided from Oahu to Hilo. To apply, please send AS A
SINGLE DOCUMENT 1. brief cover letter highlighting relevant experience
and why you are interested in the position, 2. resume, and 3. name,
address, phone number, and email address of at least 3 references to Dr.
Stephanie Yelenik, USGS Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center,
syel...@usgs.gov. Applications will be considered as they are received
to fill the positions quickly. For more information on the research
please see: http://www.usgs.gov/ecosystems/pierc/restoration-
ecology.html