Volunteer Research Assistants – Farallon Islands
2018 positions are now available. For more information, go to Point Blue, click here.
VOLUNTEER SEABIRD RESEARCH ASSISTANTS (5-7) needed for spring/summer 2018 on Southeast Farallon Island, 30 miles west of San Francisco, California. Become part of the longest continuous study of seabird ecology in the Northern Hemisphere. Our studies examine upper trophic marine predators as bio-indicators of natural and anthropogenic variation in the marine ecosystem. RA duties include censusing and monitoring seabird and marine mammal populations, conducting demographic investigations on cormorants, gulls, and alcids, and conducting feeding ecology studies on alcids. RAs also contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of the research station. RAs will work full-time, 7 days a week, with a variable schedule that includes long days and night work. Long term RAs will receive some break time off the island. Some field work requires rigorous physical activity including strenuous hiking and climbing. Applicants should enjoy working independently with a high level of responsibility in field work and data entry as well as working frequently with a partner or team. Preference will be given to applicants with a degree in biology or related field and prior ecological research experience. Enthusiasm for intense field work in windy, cold conditions is essential. The ability to coexist on a small, isolated island with aggressive gulls and overworked humans is important. If the thought of going several days without updating your Instagram or Facebook page is shocking, then this is not the job for you. Positions are available 17 March through 8 September, 2018 with a minimum 8-week commitment. We provide great food and island housing. Transportation to boat in San Francisco not provided. More information can be found at www.pointblue.org. Please send a cover letter explaining interests and dates of availability, resume, and names, email addresses, and phone numbers of 3 references to Pete Warzybok (pwarzybok AT pointblue.org), Farallon Biologist, Point Blue Conservation Science (formerly PRBO), 3820 Cypress Drive #11, Petaluma, CA, 94954. Email applications are preferred. Applications accepted until 15 January 2018 but applications will be evaluated starting at the beginning of the New Year so some positions may be filled before the deadline.
