Field assistance- Germany

The Department of Behavioural Ecology and Evolutionary Genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology in Seewiesen, Bayern, Germany (see http://www.orn.mpg.d...ment_Kempenaers), is seeking three to four field assistants to work from 1st November 2017 to 30th April 2018. These assistants will work as part of a long-term study on the reproductive biology of a blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) population in a protected forest site in Southern Germany.

• catching birds at feeders and nest-boxes using traps and/or mist nets
• measuring and banding birds
• maintenance of electronic nest-box and feeder hardware and equipment
• setting up experimental equipment
• data collection, entry, and management

Successful candidates must have experience in catching and handling birds, including extensive experience in mist netting. Applicants should also be highly motivated and well organised, with capabilities of working both in a group and independently. Field work hours can be long and tiring, thus applicants must be prepared to work in all types of weather conditions, at any time (including weekends and holidays), with typically only one day off per week.The working language at the Institute is English, so good knowledge of the language is required. A full, clean driver's licence is essential, with driving experience of at least one year. Experience in driving vehicles with manual transmission is also a necessity. Applicants from outside the EU must ensure they are eligible to remain in Europe for the duration of their contract.Successful candidates should be vaccinated against Tick Borne Encephalitis (TBE or FSME) before commencing the field work. In addition, applicants should be aware that Lyme disease spread by ticks is common in the area, and should inform themselves about the disease in advance.

The Max Planck Institute for Ornithology employs a dynamic, dedicated, and international group of researchers who are focused on exploring the fields of evolution, ecology, genetics, and neurobiology.

In an effort to employ more people with disabilities, the Max-Planck-Society specifically encourages people with disabilities to apply for the position. To increase the employment of women in areas where they are under-represented, the Max-Planck-Society also encourages women to apply for this position.

Review of applications and calls for interviews will begin in September 2017. If you are interested in applying for one of the field assistant positions as described above, please apply (including your CV) via email to kbeck@orn.mpg.de.