Volunteer field assistants needed for project focusing on the endangered Iris atropurpurea Baker and the nectar sources for its pollinators. The coastal plains of Israel contain ca. 30 endemic plant species, which suffer from severe fragmentation due to urban and agricultural development. This research will compare two pollination networks from contrasting fragmented habitats to characterise variation in network properties over time. An additional volunteer is needed from end of January to mid April 2010. Assistant must arrange for travel to Israel. The project will provide accommodation in a shared apartment in Haifa, and medical insurance via the university. The Volunteer must be able to pay for living expenses (food and personal insurance). Fieldwork will involve multiple survey techniques, bee identification, insect trapping and pinning, pollinator efficiency experiments, plant-centred surveys of plant-pollinator interactions. For more information and to apply, please send CV, cover letter and e-mail addresses of 2 referees. Applications should be sent to Dr. Stella Watts (hummingbird_pe@yahoo.com) Qualifications: The work is very physically demanding, therefore the assistant must be motivated, focused and flexible in their requirements. Ability to work independently as well as part of a team is essential. BSc in Ecology or related field is desirable. Previous experience in botany or entomology is preferred but not essential, as full training will be given. A valid driving license is required. During spring, weather conditions on the coastal plain can be very unpredictable. Therefore, working hours will vary from week to week and may fall over weekends. The volunteer will be expected to work for a maximum of 5 days per week. This placement provides a unique opportunity for those seeking to gain practical experience in the field and for those interested in a career in conservation biology. There will also be plenty of spare time for tourism, including free use of the hire car.
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