Student Field Intern - Rocky Mountain ground squirrels

Internship Description: We are looking for 4 interns interested in taking part in a field ecology project on Columbian ground squirrels. Positions will begin on May 15, 2017 and will finish on Aug 31, 2017. The project investigates the ecology of Columbian ground squirrels. As a member of the study, interns will be involved with monitoring the phenology (when animals emerge from hibernation), reproduction and survival of individuals. Fieldwork will involve live-trapping and handling of animals, radio-telemetry, behavioural observation and assistance with the measurement of physiological (metabolism) traits on free-ranging animals. This is an excellent opportunity to gain training and experience working with a collaborative research team on a long-term study of a wild mammal. Opportunities for independent research projects are also available. 

All fieldwork is carried out in the spectacular Rocky Mountains of southwestern Alberta, Canada, home to some of the most majestic wildlife in North America. Interns will have the opportunity to interact with, and learn from, other researchers working with ground squirrels on a diversity of projects in behavioural and population ecology. Additionally, a number of other researchers in the area are studying a range of species, from insects to large mammals. 

International applicants: We welcome applications from all individuals. If applicants are not Canadians or permanent residents, there is the opportunity to enter Canada and complete the internship as a Visiting Research Student. To be eligible for this program, you must be an undergraduate student, a graduate student, or be in between degrees (e.g., following graduation from a bachelors degree and looking to pursue graduate school). As part of this program, applicants will be registered at the U of S in a non-credit activity and it is expected that you will gain a demonstrable educational benefit from being involved. We are particularly interested in applicants who wish to use this opportunity to pursue an independent research project. Applicants are eligible for this program for a maximum of 6 months per 12 month period. Application forms and information are available at http://grad.usask.ca/admissions/alternate-applicants/visiting-research-student.php If you are interested in this program, please contact us (contact details below) and we will guide you through the process.

Skills Required: These positions are best suited to applicants with interests in ecology, evolutionary biology, wildlife, field biology, and/or physiological ecology. As evidence of this, applicants must either be enrolled in, or have graduated from, a relevant discipline. Successful applicants will need to be able to cope under these field conditions (including periods of time spent camping), enjoy the outdoors, be up-beat, positive, responsible and work well as a member of a team. Evidence of these abilities (gained, for example, through previous involvement on field projects or extended back-packing trips) is expected.  

Terms of Employment: Salary is not provided as part of these positions. Accommodation and food are provided. Volunteers are required to provide for their own travel to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Travel between the field station and Saskatoon is provided. 

If you wish to apply for one of these posts then please send a CV with a cover letter and contact details for three references (with e-mail addresses), by email to Jeff Lane (contact info below) ASAP. Applications will be evaluated as they are received. To ensure full consideration, please apply right away.