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McLaughlin Natural Reserve

RESEARCH ASSISTANT NEEDED

Ecological Field Research Assistant

A full-time assistant is needed to help with PhD dissertation research investigating the effects of flower density on pollinator visitation rates, to be carried out this summer at the McLaughlin Reserve. 

Benefits: Housing plus $150 per week to cover expenses will be provided.  Opportunities to carry out independent research may be available and assistance in obtaining academic credit will be provided if desired.  Transportation to the McLaughlin from Davis or Sacramento will be provided if needed.  This will be a great opportunity to find out what field research is like, learn about insects and pollination, and build your resume. 

Dates and hours: Work will be full time, five days a week on average (six day weeks may be necessary during the height of the season, but will be balanced by extra days off during other weeks), and will start early in the morning.  Dates may vary somewhat depending on the flowering time of the study species, but will be from approximately mid-July through mid-September. 

Duties: 

  • Observing flower-visiting insects (e.g., bees, flies, butterflies), identifying them at least to family, and recording their behavior.  Training in identifying insects will be provided.
  • Setting up and maintaining arrays of cut flowers in the field.
  • Other duties may include surveying flower densities and capturing, pinning, and identifying insect pollinators.

Qualifications: 

  • Previous field experience is highly desirable, but not required. 
  • Entomology background is also highly desirable, but not required.
  • Must be patient, conscientious, willing to take directions, and willing to admit mistakes.
  • Must have an interest in field research.
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Physical requirements:

  • Must be able to work outside in hot weather for several hours at a time without shade. 
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 20 pounds for up to a mile a day.
  • Must be capable of being alert early in the morning.

How to apply: Provide a cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position, a resume, copies of transcripts from any universities you have attended (unofficial copies are fine), and at least two references to Carla Essenberg, cesse001@ucr.edu.  Ideally, references should include at least one instructor (e.g., past TA or professor), and if possible one person who has interacted with you in the field and/or in the context of a research position or other job.  Interviews will likely begin in late February and continue until the position is filled.