El Yunque National Forest and Maricao State Forest
Population ecology of the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis jamaicensis) and Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus vennator) in the El Yunque National Forest and Maricao Forest, Puerto Rico.
I am seeking a postdoctoral research associate for a research project on the Red-tailed Hawk and Sharp-shinned Hawk in forest reserves and adjacent private lands of Puerto Rico. The objectives of the project are to develop new information on population dynamics and habitat relationships of both raptor species. Results of this research are linked to restoration strategies for the critically endangered Puerto Rican Parrot (Amazona vittata).
This project will require knowledge of raptor survey techniques, distance sampling, occupancy modeling, and landscape habitat modeling. The successful candidate should be able to lead a field crew in difficult conditions, insure integrity and quality of data, analyze and interpret results, and write final reports and publish the research in a reputable journal. Working knowledge of Spanish desirable but not required. During the field portions of this project the research associate will be housed in El Yunque National Forest, located in the Luquillo Mountains, and in the Maricao Forest, located in the Cordillera Central of Puerto Rico. During analysis, final report and manuscript preparation, the research associate will be housed in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture at Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi.
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I will begin reviewing applications upon receipt; the desired start date is January 2011. Salary is $35,000 per year plus benefits. The position is for 2 years with the possible extension of an additional year conditional on funding and performance. Interested candidates should direct their inquiries to: Francisco J. Vilella, USGS Cooperative Research Unit, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University (fvilella@cfr.msstate.edu). Applications should include a cover letter, updated curriculum vitae, and a list of references.