Integrating wildlife conservation into sustainable forest stewardship
Photo by Tristan Spinski
Joining the Wolfe lab (see below for employment opportunities)
Thank you for your interest in graduate research opportunities in the Wolfe lab! See below for 2024 field positions.
Funded Positions Update:
Currently, I have no funded positions available for PhD or MSc students. I understand that many students are seeking funded opportunities, and I regret that none are available at this time. If you are interested in pursuing graduate research focused on avian ecology and not really sure where to start, the Wilson Ornithological Society curates a database of graduate schools and professors that study birds and accept graduate students.
Exploring Alternative Funding Opportunities:
I encourage capable and competitive students to consider developing extramural fellowship proposals, including the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP), and/or GEM Fellowship Program for American students, and the Fulbright Foreign Student Program for international students. I have worked with outstanding students in the past to achieve fellowship support. If you want to pursue fellowship support and believe that you would be a competitive candidate, I would be interested in hearing from you. When reaching out, please include a brief overview of your research interests, academic background, and any relevant experiences. Highlight your motivation and potential research ideas that align with a particular fellowship opportunity, and the goals and focus of my lab. I value diversity and welcome students from various academic backgrounds.
Thank you for considering the Wolfe lab for your graduate research journey and I wish you the best of luck in your academic pursuits.
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Habitat Assessment Crew Member
Start Date: Mid-April
Pay: $20/hour
Description:
Join the Wolfe Lab at Michigan Technological University as a Habitat Assessment Crew Member and engage in vital ecological research across Michigan's Upper Peninsula. This position offers a unique opportunity to measure forest structure, conduct comprehensive plant surveys, and sample insects and fruits, contributing to our understanding of wildlife food resources. Ideal for individuals passionate about fieldwork, conservation, and ecological research, this role provides hands-on experience in diverse outdoor conditions. Team members are expected to demonstrate resilience, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment. Your contribution will directly impact conservation efforts and our understanding of local bird populations' habitat quality. Download details and instructions regarding how to apply here.
Bird Bander
Start Date: Mid-April
Pay: $20/hour
Description:
The Wolfe Lab is seeking a Bird Bander to play a critical role in their Stopover Habitat Quality Project in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. As a Bird Bander, you will co-lead mist net stations for bird capture and processing, collect avian genetic samples, and contribute to the project's success. This position demands a candidate who is resilient, passionate about avian research, and experienced in bird banding. Your work will involve close collaboration with a dedicated team, operating in remote and challenging environments, and maintaining high standards of data collection and safety protocols. This role offers a rewarding experience for individuals eager to advance their careers in wildlife conservation and ornithological research. Download details and instructions regarding how to apply here.
Assistant Bird Bander
Start Date: Mid-April
Pay: $15-$20/hour, dependent on experience
Description:
The Assistant Bird Bander position at the Wolfe Lab offers an entry into the world of avian research and conservation. Join our team in Michigan's Upper Peninsula to assist in the operation of mist net stations, handling and processing songbirds, and collecting vital research data. This role is designed for individuals who are new to bird banding but have a keen interest in learning and contributing to conservation efforts. You will work under the guidance of experienced banders, gaining skills and insights that are invaluable for a career in wildlife research. This position requires commitment, a passion for fieldwork, and the ability to work effectively in diverse weather conditions and terrains. Download details and instructions regarding how to apply