🚀 go-pugleaf

I am seeking research assistants for a study on the effects of
polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) exposure on the small mammals at
forested site in central Pennsylvania.  The overall goal for this
study is to develop a method to assess biotic harm from PCB
contamination in terrestrial habitats.  Field studies focus on the
assemblage of small mammals trapped with Sherman, Bolton and
pitfall traps, and on the population biology of white-footed mice,
short-tailed shrew and red-backed voles.  Laboratory studies focus
on the short-tailed shrew and white-footed mouse.  Shrews are of
special interest because they feed high on the food chain and
have potentially high levels of exposure to PCBs through eating
contaminated prey items.

The volunteer will be involved in all phases of the project,
including trapping shrews for the field component of the study,
daily data collection and husbandry of the captive shrews,
assisting with the operation of experimental trials and data
entry.  Good work habits and ability to communicate are very
important; the volunteer must be someone who can take general
direction, discuss the procedures, be motivated enough to work
carefully on their own and with initiative to solve some of the
methodological issues that always come up. This is an excellent
opportunity for someone to participate in a scientific study
related to environmental protection.  Dates are from 1 March 1998
to approximately 15 October, although these are somewhat flexible.

The Patuxent Wildlife Research Center is a federal research lab
(of the U.S. Geological Service, Department of the Interior)
located in Maryland about 12 miles N of Washington, D.C., on a
12,000 acre research wildlife refuge.  Several different areas of
research are carried out here including study of the ecological
effects of environmental contaminants, migratory birds and their
habitat use, and endangered species biology including captive
propagation.  There are roughly 50 scientists and 200 employees
overall at Patuxent.  Housing for volunteers is available, along
with reimbursement of living expenses. There is no local public
transportation from Patuxent to shopping areas so a car is
desirable.

Please send (electronic or surface mail) resume and a letter to:

John Brand French, Jr., Ph.D.        email: JOHN_B_FRENCH@USGS.GOV
Patuxent Wildlife Research Center    tel: (301) 497-5702
USGS - Biological Resources Division fax: (301) 497-5744
12011 Beech Forest Rd.
Laurel, MD     20708-4041