Benefits:

• Gratis Station Lodging (No Pets)
• Station Holidays Off
• $530 Stipend, paid bi-weekly

Florida Scrub-Jay Demography Research Interns

Step into the world of avian ecology with our dynamic internship program!

Apply here: https://archbold-station.apscareerportal.com/jobs/2689479/apps/new

Archbold Biological Station

123 Main Drive, Venus Florida 33960

The Avian Ecology Program at Archbold Biological Station is inviting four interns to join a six-month minimum commitment to support the ongoing 56-year study of the demography, ecology, behavior, and preservation of the Federally Threatened Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens). The internships will commence on February 3rd, with two positions concluding in July 2025 and the remaining two in mid-September 2025. Under the guidance of Dr. Sahas Barve, interns will work in a dynamic laboratory setting and receive mentorship from three full-time research assistants. An exceptional aspect of the internship includes the chance to initiate an independent research project, either by collecting new data or by utilizing the extensive Florida Scrub-Jay dataset.

Archbold Interns receive invaluable mentoring, hands-on training, and the opportunity to contribute to several aspects of this research, but their primary training and guidance will include how to:

• Independently search for and monitor nests
• Conducting monthly census of color-banded birds
• Accurately and efficiently conduct data entry daily
• Habituating birds for subsequent trapping
• Conducting oak acorn surveys
• Surveying FLSJ populations at other sites

Additional Opportunities Interns will be involved in collecting blood samples from jays, delineating jay territories, and assisting with controlled burns. They will receive approximately 20 hours of practical field and laboratory experience, usually from Monday to Friday, with flexible weekend activities during the height of the breeding season. Interns will also acquire skills in trapping, handling, and drawing blood from Florida Scrub-Jays, as well as have the chance to volunteer in various programs at Archbold, including Education, Plant, Herpetology, Predator-Prey, Agroecology, and others.

Independent Avian Ecology Research Project -Our program goes beyond hands-on field and laboratory work by empowering interns to design and conduct their own independent research projects. This unique opportunity allows you to delve into a subject that ignites your interests, guided by experienced mentors.

Benefits of this project experience include:

• Project Design: Develop the skill to identify compelling research questions and devise robust experimental designs.
• Scientific Skills: Refine your expertise in statistical analysis and data interpretation.
• Presentation Excellence: Improve your verbal and written communication skills, preparing you for further academic pursuits or professional report writing.

Our interns don’t just learn—they achieve!  Many have showcased their findings at international conferences and even published their work in prestigious peer-reviewed journals. This is your chance to contribute to the scientific community and make a real impact in the field of avian ecology.

General Qualifications:

This position is ideal for students with undergraduate degrees contemplating graduate school in the fields of Ecology, Evolution, Conservation Biology, and Natural Resource Management.

Requirements include:

• A Bachelor’s degree.
• Field experience beyond coursework is not necessary as we provide comprehensive training for all interns.
• Experience with resighting color-banded birds, nest monitoring, and using navigational tools such as a compass or GPS.
• The ability to work independently in the field, yet collaborate with a small team to meet project objectives.
• A keen eye for detail, particularly in adhering to sampling protocols and data management.
• A tolerance for biting insects, early mornings, and the high heat/humidity typical of fieldwork.
• A strong motivation and positive attitude towards living and working in a rural field station.
• Respect for fellow interns with whom shared accommodation will be provided.
• Clear and effective communication with supervisors, colleagues, and roommates.
• Valid US Driver’s License.

TO APPLY: Visit this link (https://archbold-station.apscareerportal.com/jobs/2689479/apps/new) and upload the following in a single pdf titled with your surname:

• A single-page cover letter outlining how your previous experiences and interests are relevant to the job responsibilities and qualifications listed above. Be sure to mention your research interests and describe how this position aligns with your personal experiences and goals.
• A CV (curriculum vitae)
• The names and contact information of three references

For questions, please contact Tori Bakley at tbakley@archbold-station.org

We will start reviewing applications after the deadline on October 20, 2024.

Archbold’s mission is to build and share the scientific knowledge needed to protect the life, lands, and waters of Florida, and beyond.  Archbold’s footprint encompasses the ancient scrub habitats of the Lake Wales Ridge; the Avon Park Air Force Range Sentinel Landscape; the vast, open ranchlands of Central Florida; and the many waterways that flow south into Lake Okeechobee and then drain to the coasts, touching the lives of millions of Floridians.  Archbold studies and protects these natural wonders as ecosystems: as complex networks shaped by measurable natural processes.  Our dozens of research sites encompass the pristine sand dunes of the Lake Wales Ridge; the ranchlands and wetlands that make up much of Central Florida; and the rivers that flow south into Lake Okeechobee and beyond.

Today Archbold stewards a rich mosaic of natural habitats, native ecosystems, working lands, and historic buildings at Archbold Biological Station and Buck Island Ranch. The Station and the Ranch serve as the place-based crucible for our innovative science, conservation, and education programs. These draw from a long, deep history, dating back from our beginnings, founded by Richard Archbold in 1941.