VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANT: volunteer needed from 20 March to 20 May 2007 for a research project on migratory shorebirds in The Netherlands. The project is part of the research on Animal Ecology from the University of Groningen. We collect data on the timing of migration, habitat use, reproductive behaviour and survival in a population of colour-marked Ruffs (Philomachus pugnax). The Ruff combines extremes in migratory behaviour with an extravagant mating system. Our project involves several graduate students working on (1) mark-recapture analyses of radio-marked and colour-banded birds, (2) reproductive behaviour of the three male morphs, (3) seasonal variation in ecological immunology of the male morphs, (4) sexual segregation in habitat use and timing of migration, (5) genetic population structure. Volunteer will assist with bird banding, blood sampling, radio tracking, monitoring colour-banded birds and data entry. Field work area is in southwest Friesland, a characteristic Dutch meadow area in the north of The Netherlands. Volunteer and students will live in the small, rustic village below the old sea dyke of Lake IJsselmeer.  

Applicants must have good social skills, a driver license and experience with bird observations. Command of Dutch or Frisian is not necessary ;-). We provide housing and field equipment. Volunteers must pay own airfare and living expenses (3-4 Euro per day). A small refund of these costs might be possible (depending on pending grant applications). Applicants must be prepared for cold conditions requiring warm outdoor gear, including thermowear, hats, and gloves.

TO APPLY: Please send a resume/CV, a cover letter addressing any relevant experience, time available and two references with e-mail addresses to y.i.verkuil AT rug.nl. For further info see: http://www.rug.nl/biologie/onderzoek/onderzoekgroepen/dieroecologie/onderzoek/researchstudies/migratimmune