Point Blue Conservation Science (formerly PRBO) 3820 Cypress Drive Suite 11 Petaluma, CA 94954 707.781.2555 pointblue.org Conservation Science for a healthy planet. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ON THE FARALLON ISLANDS Point Blue is looking for Volunteer Elephant Seal Research Assistants (3-4) for winter 2019/2020 on Southeast Farallon Island. Research Assistant (RA) responsibilities include, but are not limited to, censusing and monitoring breeding elephant seals, flipper tagging animals, resighting tagged California and Steller’s Sea Lions, Harbor Seals and Northern Fur Seals, and surveying for salamanders, crickets, songbirds, seabirds, gulls, burrowing owls, and whales. (Sorry, White sharks are unlikely during the winter months). RAs also contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of the research station and help with food preparation. RAs will work full-time, 7 days a week, with a variable schedule that includes long days and night work. Some field work requires rigorous physical activity including strenuous hiking and climbing. Applicants should enjoy working independently with a high level of responsibility in field work and data entry as well as working frequently with a partner or team. Preference will be given to applicants with a degree in biology or related field and prior ecological research experience. Enthusiasm for field work in windy, cold conditions is essential. The ability to coexist on a small, isolated island with the same crew for several months is essential. If the thought of going several days without updating your Instagram or Facebook page is shocking, then this is not the job for you. Positions are available 7 December 2019 through 28 March 2020 with a minimum 8-week commitment. However, strong preference will be given to applicants who are available for the entire period. We provide transportation to the island and great food and housing. Transportation to San Francisco is not provided. More information can be found at pointblue.org. To apply, please email a single pdf file in the following format: lastname_firstname_2020winterassistant.pdf to Garrett Duncan (gduncan-SEA@pointblue.org<mailto:gduncan-SEA@pointblue.org>). This document should contain your cover letter explaining your interests, your resume, dates of availability, and 3 professional references. Applications accepted until September 30th 2019 but applications will be evaluated as they are received so some positions may be filled before the deadline. Thanks very much, Garrett Duncan