Foraging Behavior and Movement of White-Footed Mouse (Peromyscus leucopus) Study
A Master student in the ENST program is looking for help on an upcoming project that will
start April 2019 and run until October 2019. Applications should be submitted no later than
April 8 2019. In this study, she will be collaring white-footed mice to track their movement and
behavior as it pertains to tick control treatments. This study falls under a larger research project
run by the USDA in Howard County, Maryland. Interns will be required to help collect
movement data on mice and assist with the monthly mouse trapping. Interns are expected to
work a total of 15-20 hours a week and are able to work 2 to 3 days out of the week. This job
requires extensive telemetry work and small mammal handling. Training will be provided before
technicians enter the field. All positions available for college credit. Paid and unpaid positions
are available. Paid position dependent on experience.
Technicians would be required to:
Work early mornings or late evenings depending on collaring schedule
o Telemetry work will be done from 7:00 pm to 12:00 am.
o Checking mouse traps in the morning starts at 5:30 a.m.
Use GPS units to record trap locations.
Use telemetry equipment, and be comfortable finding points under 4 minutes
(some training will be provided, but students with a knowledge of wildlife
techniques are preferred)
Use a topographical maps.
Help with white footed mice capture
o We will be taking tissue, blood and tick samples from mice.
Help manage mouse transects and telemetry walking trails.
Help clean and bait Sherman traps.
Organize and upload data points.
For more information on the USDA technician position please see the following link:
https://wfscjobs.tamu.edu/jobs/seasonal-field-technician-maryland/
Technicians should have a means of transportation to each field site. However, transportation
maybe provided from the USDA, Beltsville. Coveralls and DEET will be provided, however this
mouse project occurs during peak tick season. The proper protection is required for all
technicians. Hiking boots or boots without holes, long socks, and breathable long pants are
highly suggested. Bright colors and University of Maryland gear is also recommended for night
work. If interested, please send your resume and cover letter to Grace Hummell at
gfarrarh@gmail.com and Laura Beimfohr at beimfohr@umd.edu