We are looking for a volunteer field assistant to assist with data collection for research on the behavioural responses of purple-crowned fairy-wrens to high temperatures and how this relationship is influenced by prey availability. Our study population is located in the Kimberley, Western Australia. Fieldwork will take place from mid-October to late November.

We are seeking the volunteer field assistant to help with behavioural observations and arthropod prey sampling in the territories of purple-crown fairy-wrens along a < 15km stretch of a river. Work will involve time budget observations on activity and microhabitat use, and insect sampling using sweep-netting and sticky 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 resighting colour-banded birds.

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 conducting avian behavioural observations in the wild is essential. 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 candidates, flights to and from Broome may also be (partially) 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 fieldwork experience to Thaddeus Pev: Thaddeus.pev@monash.edu . Applications will be accepted until 10 August 2026.