WSU Bird Safety & Window-Collision Survey Intern

Qualifications:

• Is a Weber State University (WSU) student with good academic standing 
• Demonstrates attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills
• Has leadership skills and is eager to start initiatives on campus
• Science communication and outreach experience (preferred)
• Western songbird identification skills (preferred)

Job Description:

The Ogden Nature Center (ONC) and the Weber State University (WSU) College of Science are conducting a bird window strike survey on campus to identify“hotspot” bird collision areas. We are looking to hire a student who is passionate about bird conservation, conducting research, and science communication. The chosen applicant will conduct bird collision surveys around select WSU buildings at the main WSU campus for six weeks over the peak fall 2024 migration (Sept-Oct) and six weeks over peak spring 2025 migration (Mar-Apr), for a total of 12 weeks. Surveys will focus on identifying bird-window collisions, collecting in depth scientific data, and delivering any bird carcasses to the WSU Avian Ecology Lab Collections. The project will also include educational outreach through the creation of outreach materials, volunteer events, and engagement with the WSU Sustainability Office to create bird friendly initiatives on campus. This position will become a student leader, engaging with other students and faculty about bird safety. This position may also assist in bird banding data inputting and analysis.

This position is funded through a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Grant awarded to the Ogden Nature Center. The chosen applicant will receive a $2500 research stipend which will be awarded in two payments following the completion of spring/fall seasonal surveys. This position is expected to work ~15 hours a week for the 12-week duration and will conduct surveys 3-4 non consecutive days each week during the 6-week migration periods. Student must be able to commit to both survey seasons and commit to presenting the research findings at WSU and ONC.