Avian ecotox research technician

Job Description: Research in the Morrissey lab at the University of Saskatchewan will involve bird surveys, nest searching, egg collections, water, insect and sediment collections and possible trapping and handling of wild birds using a variety of methods.  The candidate may be involved in multiple projects working on songbirds, shorebirds and other waterbirds based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan but will be principally assisting a graduate student in research aimed at determining resident and migratory waterbird exposure and toxicity of Alberta Oil Sands process water from tailings facilities in Fort McMurray, Alberta.

Duration and Hours:  May 1 to July 31, 2023 (possible extension dependent on availability).  The oil sands project will require approximately 6-8 weeks of on-site field work in Fort MacMurray starting mid to late May 2023.   Possibility for shorter work term only in Fort McMurray if desired. As most of the work is field research, there is an expectation for some long hours or work during weekends which is compensated through paid time off.

Preferred skills and experience of a successful candidate:

-       BSc or MSc in avian ecology or similar field

-       Waterfowl and shorebird identification

-       Bird survey techniques

-       Nest monitoring

-       Bird trapping, handling and banding (Banding permit preferred)

-       Collection of tissue samples from birds in the hand (eg. blood, feces)

-       Environmental sampling (eg. Water, insect, and sediment collections)

-       Class 5 Drivers licence and safe driving record

-       First Aid training and certification

-       WHMIS 2015 training and certification

Rates of Pay:  $14.75 to $20.75/hour (Non union salary band 1 to 3) dependent on education and experience.   Travel costs (transportation, accommodation and a meal allowance) will be covered while working remotely in the field.

To Apply

Please send a 1 page cover letter and a CV to Dr. Christy Morrissey Christy.morrissey@usask.ca by April 10, 2023