We are looking for a volunteer field assistant to assist with data collection for research on climate change and how prey availability can mitigate its impacts on purple-crowned fairy-wrens. Our study population is located in the Kimberley, Western Australia. Fieldwork will take place from October to late November.

We are seeking the volunteer field assistant to help to sample prey (i.e., insect) abundance in the territories of purple-crown fairy-wrens along a 15km stretch of river. Work will involve insect sampling using sweep-netting and window traps in the field, as well as counting, sorting, measuring captured prey and entering data in the lab. If time permits, there may be the opportunity to help with additional fieldwork involving for example resighting colour-banded birds and targeted behavioural observations on activity and habitat use.

The field site is located at a remote sanctuary an 8-hour drive from Broome, WA. Volunteer will be camping in tents but have access to electricity, wifi, hot showers, and a spacious fully equipped kitchen, which is shared with the rest of the small community at the field station. The field site is located in a beautiful area, with many opportunities to see native wildlife and some of the most iconic bird species of the area.

Volunteer field assistant must be flexible and willing to work long days outdoors in hot and humid conditions, as well as indoors in the lab. Furthermore, the field assistant must be comfortable with living in a remote location, have good interpersonal skills, and be able to work independently. It is important for the volunteer to be accurate when collecting and entering data, and to ask for help when unsure about anything. Previous experience with prey sampling and insect identification is a bonus but not essential.

The cost of accommodation (mostly camping in tents), food, and local travel expenses will be covered; for exceptional candidate, flights to and from Broome may also be covered.

For further information and to apply, please send a CV, cover letter and contacts for at least two references that are familiar with your insect sampling or fieldwork experience to Thaddeus Pev: Thaddeus.pev@monash.edu . Applications will be accepted until 1 August 2025