ELEPHANT SEAL AND SALAMANDER VOLUNTEER RESEARCH ASSISTANTS (2) needed for winter on Southeast Farallon Island, 28 miles west of San Francisco, California. Daily duties involve observation of elephant seal breeding colony, reading flipper-tags, tagging and marking of cows and pups, keeping accurate data records of pup births and deaths, data entry and proofing. Additional work involves twice monthly cover board surveys of Farallon salamander (Aneides lugubris farallonensis), including photographing, measuring and weighing all captured salamanders. Matching photos of captured salamanders with photo database records of known animals will require many hours in front of the computer. Furthermore, RAs monitor the number and species of all birds on the island, conduct daily weather and oceanic observations. RAs also contribute to the upkeep, cleaning, and maintenance of the research station. RAs will work full-time, 7 days a week, with a variable schedule that sometimes includes long days. Field work requires rigorous physical activity as well as long hours of repetitive actions in cold, wet conditions. Excellent vision, possession of good quality binoculars, being comfortable in close proximity to large toothy mammals, and hand strength for tagging are required. 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 field research experience, especially photo database work. Enthusiasm for field work in windy, wet, chilly conditions is essential. The ability to coexist on a small, isolated island with gulls and humans is important. Positions are 4 Dec through 15 March. RAs are volunteers, we provide training, great food, comfortable island housing, and a unique experience. To apply, please send a cover letter; resume/CV; and names, phone numbers, and email of 3 field work supervisors to Derek E. Lee (dlee@prbo.org<mailto:dlee@prbo.org>) Farallon Biologist, PRBO Conservation Science. Visit our website at: http://www.prbo.org/cms/index.php?mid=157&module=browse for more info.