Maéva Gauthier, MSc.
Marine Ecology & Outreach
| Subject: | Job posting - please forward if possible |
|---|---|
| Date: | Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:44:35 -0700 |
| From: | Mark Maftei <mark.maftei@gmail.com> |
| To: | Mark Maftei <mark.maftei@gmail.com> |
CANADIAN HIGH ARCTIC FIELD ASSISTANT NEEDED
Volunteer field assistant needed for remote Arctic work approx. June 1 - August 15. This is a volunteer position, but all flights (from western Canada), travel costs, and accommodations will be covered for the duration of the season.
The High Arctic Gull Research Group is a small but dynamic collaboration between government and academic scientists currently running a number of exciting projects examining the biology and ecology of several species of rare and poorly known species including Ross's, Sabine's and ivory gulls. A volunteer is needed to assist with work to be carried out on two very small and extremely remote islands in the Canadian High Arctic. Our field camps are comfortable and well equipped, and sleeping is in communal bunk-style cabins. There is a lovely sauna in one camp. Food is fantastic in both camps. There are lots of great opportunities to enjoy some spectacular wildlife and scenery. In addition to an unusually high diversity of breeding birds, polar bears, walruses, and seals are commonly seen around both sites.
The first part of the season (June 1 - July 20th) will be spent studying Ross's and Sabine's gulls on Nasaruvaalik Island: (http://mallorylab.coffeecup.com/Nasaruvaalik.html). Primary duties will involve conducting behavioural observations from blinds and assisting in trapping and banding Arctic terns, as well as Ross's and Sabine's gulls. Expect long but relaxed days. There might be some work conducted from a small zodiac, as well as some survey work from a helicopter.
The second part of the season (July 20th - August 15th) will involve assisting with ongoing monitoring (mostly observational studies) of cliff nesting species (kittiwakes, murres, and fulmars) on Prince Leopold Island, one of the most important, spectacular, and storied field sites in the Canadian Arctic: (http://mallorylab.coffeecup.com/PLI.html).
This is a rare opportunity to see two completely different, completely amazing bird colonies in one of the most remote and inaccessible parts of the Arctic. In addition to taking an equal role in daily camp chores (cooking, cleaning, data entry, etc...), you must also be comfortable and capable of taking on field work tasks as assigned (nest searching, behavioural observations, bird trapping, etc...). Previous experience is certainly an asset, but a willingness to learn and apply new skills is paramount. The ability to work alone and unsupervised is key.
It is imperative that applicants are well aware that despite every attempt to provide a laid back and comfortable working and living atmosphere, these camps are extremely remote and both positions will involve long periods of time spent in very close quarters with a small crew. There is little privacy. You must be able to get along well with others!
Finally, it is to be expected that polar bears will be encountered frequently. All crew must be comfortable carrying and using firearms. You must possess (or obtain) a PAL license. First-aid certification is also mandatory. Previous experience working in the Arctic is not necessary, but could be an asset.
Please send a resume, cover letter, and references to Mark Maftei: arctic.gull.research@gmail.com. Applicants will be considered as they apply and until the position is filled.
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