Bat research – Lead technician – University of Wyoming
Agency: University of Wyoming
Location: Laramie, WY
Job Category: Research Technician
Salary: $20/hr.
Start Date: Mid-May 2023
Last Date to Apply: March 3, 2023
Overview of the position: Bats are an integral component in many ecosystems, providing valuable services such as agricultural pest control, pollination and seed dispersal, and human pest determent. Currently, numerous bat species in temperate North America are suffering from declining populations due to the reduction of roost sites and foraging potential from habitat loss, wind energy development, climate change and the introduction of disease. Although some information is known about critical habitats and the behavior of various bat species in the eastern region of the continent, much less is known about the general ecology and habitat needs of bats in western North America. Therefore, conservation efforts targeting bats in the West often lack the information necessary for making optimal management decisions and are typically modeled after eastern bat species.
The Bernard Research Lab is recruiting a technician to lead a crew to capture and radio track species at risk of decline from WNS, as well as deploy and maintain passive acoustic detectors. The specific goals of the project are to 1) determine what the seasonal use of bats on Camp Guernsey Joint Military Base (Wyoming, USA), 2) locate and characterize roosts sites potentially used by captured individuals, and 3) characterize habitat within the Base’s boundary to determine important habitat and microclimate components that may influence roost selection in the region (i.e., habitat assessment).
The team will be conducting research on Camp Guernsey Joint Military Base. Lodging will be provided via camping at nearby state parks or national forest land or on Camp Guernsey Joint Military Base. The project is funded by the Wyoming Military Department and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Technicians will have opportunities to interact with biologists from Wyoming Game and Fish and the Wyoming Military Department.
We are seeking an individual interested in field research in the West. Individuals from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply.
Start date: The ideal candidate would begin their field season in mid-May 2023 and complete the season in October 2023, with time off during the field season.
To apply: Submit a single PDF labeled as Lastname_TechApplication.pdf containing 1) a cover letter [this should include a description about your academic career thus far, why you are interested in this project or working with bats, and your career goals]; 2) a CV or resume; and 3) the name and contact information of 3 references. Applications or questions about the position should be sent to Dr. Riley Bernard at rbernar5@uwyo.edu.
Review of applications will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
Statement on Diversity:
Diverse research groups, including those that are diverse in knowledge, experiences, and identities, increases productivity and creativity. The Bernard Research Lab is strongly committed to increasing the representation of traditionally excluded groups and fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive research lab here at the University of Wyoming.
The University of Wyoming values a wide range of cultural perspectives, experiences, and opinions that are important for educational excellence and critical for preparing students for future success (http://www.uwyo.edu/
COVID-19 Statement: To lower the risk of exposing bats to SARS-CoV-2 and as required by state and federal capture permits, all field personal will be required to wear a fitted N-95 mask and gloves for the entirety of the netting and handling process of this study regardless of vaccination status. N-95 masks and disposable work gloves will be provided. All field gear and personal equipment used during netting will be disinfected with a 90% isopropyl alcohol solution immediately after the netting process. Gear that is porous (nets, clothes, etc.) will be soaked in 130 °F water. Symptomatic or Covid-positive individuals will not be allowed to engage in any field work—including observational surveys. These precautions are non-negotiable.
Required Qualifications:
Applicants for Lead Technician must be able to be federally permitted to capture and handle Myotis septentrionalis (minimum of 5 MYSE captured in previous positions).
Working towards or already earned a BS/BA in biology, zoology, wildlife and fisheries science or related field.
Experience conducting field-based research.
Experience working collaboratively in teams as well as independently.
A valid driver’s license and ability to drive long distances to field sites. University of Wyoming Fleet vehicles can only be driven by individuals who have a valid driver’s license for over one year.
Desired Qualifications:
Experience or interest in studying bats, including radio tracking and vegetation surveys.
Rabies vaccinated.
Experience or interest in acoustic surveys.
Experience or interest in habitat management and conservation of imperiled species.