MS Opportunity for Turtle Project in Michigan
We are seeking a Master’s student to assist with an ongoing study focusing on movements and habitat use by the Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta) in the northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan. Work can begin in April, though an outstanding candidate may start in May if necessary for completing a school term. The successful applicant will need to be accepted into the MS program at Purdue University Fort Wayne and ideally qualify for a teaching assistantship. The deadline for that application is February 15.
The project is very interesting, and the study site beautiful. That said, the work is challenging and so we focus on those challenges here. The student will lead day-to-day efforts, in the field, surveying for, capturing, and radio-tracking turtles. Applicants will need to be comfortable working long hours alone and as part of a cohesive research team. Conditions can be hot, humid, and prickly in an area inhabited by venomous snakes and biting insects. If you say “Cool” to that you might be our person. Excellent communication skills are imperative, as this research takes place on a military base (sometimes on or near firing ranges) and requires collaborating closely with the rest of the research team (often remotely) and various military personnel. A valid driver’s license is required.
Our goals with this study are to explore connectivity between turtles and suitable habitat across the area. Fieldwork will require routine radio-tracking, utilizing GPS data loggers, vegetation surveys, checking traps, entering data, sterilizing equipment, as well as some other odd jobs as needed. Previous experience with radio telemetry, working with and surveying for cryptic wildlife is preferred but is not required.
Logistics
Pay in the field will be $15/hour and 40 hours/week. Shared housing will be provided. Applicants should be comfortable living in close quarters with other researchers, including sharing a room. A rental vehicle will be provided for field work. Housing and travel costs for on-site work are covered.
Contact Information
Qualified applicants should email a letter of interest, a resume/CV that describes their academic background and relevant experience, and the names and contact information for at least three references. This information should be submitted to Dr. Bruce Kingsbury at bruce.kingsbury@pfw.edu. Please put “MS – Michigan Turtles” in the subject line to help us sort incoming messages. Completed applications will be accepted until February 15, the MS app date, but review of materials sent to Dr. Kingsbury will occur as they are received, and the position filled as soon as possible.