Geographic Variation in Birds of Western North America
Carla Cicero, Emeritus Staff Curator
Museum of Vertebrate Zoology
Closed. This professor is continuing with Fall 2024 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Spring 2025.
Students will assist with research projects that investigate geographic variation and species limits in birds. Work may involve morphologic measurements, color measurements, DNA laboratory work, and/or sound analysis. Positions are not available every semester, and students must already have some experience in the MVZ working with specimens and data. Students will meet weekly with supervisor Cicero to discuss progress and problems. Because this work requires a significant level of training, students should commit to at least one year (preferably longer) to carry out projects.
Role: Students will learn how to conduct museum-based research. Successful students may co-author papers and present on their work at professional meetings.
Qualifications: Students must be committed to gaining research experience in preparation for graduate school or a professional career in biology. Students must be detail-oriented, organized, meticulous, and be able to think critically and record data carefully and legibly. Basic computer literacy, especially with spreadsheets, required. Students should be able to work in teams and independently. Minimum of 9 hours required per week.
Hours: 3-5 hrs
Related website: http://mvz.berkeley.edu
Related website: http://mvz.berkeley.edu