Research Professional - Missouri
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and the state’s flagship university. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton.
About the role
The Gamebird and Managed Ecosystems (GAME) Lab is seeking a Research Professional to serve as a project field research leader on a Northern Bobwhite project near Columbia or Kirksville, MO. The project will examine bobwhite ecology and restoration efforts on private lands in Missouri. The successful incumbent will work with landowners and other research staff to coordinate research activities, lead seasonal field technicians in field data collection, and may assist with hiring seasonal employees. This position has a limited term appointment expected to end 2 years after start date, with possible extension contingent upon continued funding.
This position involves working non-typical hours, with morning and nighttime work needed at different times of the year.
Responsibilities
- Field Research – Trapping and tagging quail, vegetation surveys, tracking quail:
- Plan all aspects of field research, such as designing trapping arrays and research protocols
- Ensure that all necessary equipment is in stock and functioning correctly, ordering supplies, and hiring and setting schedules for field technicians
- Conduct fieldwork, including building quail traps, setting up and baiting of traps, trapping quail, tagging quail with VHF radio transmitter collars, tracking quail via radio-telemetry, vegetation surveys
- Train seasonal field technicians to assist in all field duties and provide safety training for field work
- Data entry and management:
- Responsible for accurate data entry, proofing of data to ensure data quality control, and keeping data organized
- Assist with interviewing and selecting applicants for seasonal positions
- Assist with writing reports to the sponsor and state permitting requirements
- Maintain all research equipment including trucks and UTVs Percentage of time: 5% each
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid Driver's license
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of avian ecology
- Highly motivated with the ability to work independently, plan ahead, and lead a field crew
- Strong work ethic
Physical Demands
- Driving as needed to perform job duties
- Sitting at a computer
- Field work occurring at odd hours and in varying environmental conditions