Post-Baccalaureate Research Fellow; Avian Ecology

Description

The Avian Ecology Program at Archbold Biological Station is seeking four Post-Baccalaureate Research Fellows (PBRFs) for seasonal appointments of at least six months to assist with one of the world's longest-running studies of wild birds: a 57-year research program focused on the demography, ecology, behavior, and conservation of the federally threatened Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens). Four positions will begin on February 1, 2027.

Two appointments will continue through July 2027, while the remaining two will continue through mid-September 2027.

Fellows will be mentored by Dr. Sahas Barve and work within a dynamic research team that includes three research assistants. This is a seasonal position paying $15.00 per hour for approximately 29 hours per week. Because this position is classified as seasonal, traditional employee benefits are not provided hbold determines benefit eligibility for seasonal employees using the Affordable Care Act (ACA) look-back measurement method.

Lodging is provided, and residence at Archbold Biological Station is required for the duration of the fellowship.

A unique feature of this fellowship is the opportunity to develop an independent research project, either through the collection of new field data or by leveraging Archbold's extensive long-term Florida Scrub-Jay dataset. We particularly encourage applications from individuals who are enthusiastic about pursuing independent research and gaining hands-on experience in ecological field studies, data analysis, and scientific inquiry.

• PBRFs contribute to several aspects of this research, but their primary duties include:
• Independently searching for and monitoring nests
• Conducting monthly censuses of color-banded birds
• Daily data entry
• Habituating birds for subsequent trapping
• Conducting oak acorn surveys
• Surveying FLSJ populations at other sites
• In addition, PBRFs may assist in collecting blood samples from jays, mapping jay territories, and helping with prescribed fires

Bachelor’s degree. This position is ideal for students with undergraduate degrees contemplating graduate school in the fields of Ecology, Evolution, Conservation Biology, and Natural Resource Management.

• Field experience outside of coursework; however, we provide all required training for all PBRFs.
• Resighting color-banded birds
• Finding and monitoring nests
• Using a compass or GPS
• Ability to navigate and work alone in the field but coordinate duties with a small team to achieve all project goals.
• Certifications/Licenses
• A valid US Driver’s License
• experience searching for nests of open-cup nesters, preferred

Please note that we are unable to provide international applicants with a work visa. US citizenship or permission to work legally in the US is required.

• Attention to detail with respect to following sampling protocols and managing data
• Tolerance for biting insects, early mornings, and high heat/humidity
• Motivation and enthusiasm about living and working at a rural field-station
• Respect for others, as PBRFs will share lodging with other PBRFs
• Effective and responsive communication with supervisors, coworkers, and roommates

Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of their position with or without reasonable accommodation. Depending on the role, work may require sitting, standing, walking, bending, reaching, lifting and carrying materials, repetitive hand movements, and operating standard office, laboratory, field, or maintenance equipment. Some positions may involve working outdoors in varying weather conditions, traversing uneven terrain, and occasional travel.

Physical requirements will vary by…