Details

Category: 
Student subject
Function: 
Student (HBO)
Student (University)
Department: 
Animal Ecology
Closing date: 
Wednesday 1 March 2017

Light pollution is increasingly recognised as one of the strongest anthropogenic factors that can impact ecosystems.

NIOO is the co-leader (together with Wageningen UR) of a long-term project called “Licht Op Natuur”, the goal of which is to understand the long-term effects of an experimental illumination of forest habitats. The project is a collaboration between more than 100 people, including scientists, NGOs, stakeholders and local municipalities.

Within this large initiative, the project “Ageing in the light” investigates the long-term consequences of light pollution for the physiology and behaviour of the passerine bird Great tit (Parus major), with a specific interest in ageing and senescence. The project also has a strong applied/conservation angle, as we seek to test if different light colours impact physiological responses to different extents.

What are we looking for?

We need highly motivated, independent students (3-4 in total) in ecology/biology to assist in our 2017 fieldwork. The first task of each student will be to assist with basic field work duties, which include doing weekly rounds to check for the first egg laid, the start of clutch incubation, and egg-hatching date, as well as capturing and measuring parents and chicks before the chicks fledge.

However, there is ample room for independent student projects for any type of thesis (Master’s, Bachelor’s, HBO), and students are encouraged to come up with their own research question as long as it fits within the wider scope of the project, with broad links to animal eco-physiology, ageing and biological rhythms. Possible research questions are:

  • Is the natural circadian rhythm in body temperature affected by light pollution?
  • Does light pollution affect the settlement patterns of birds, for instance with respect to personality traits?
  • Does light pollution affect nocturnal hormone levels?

...do you have a better question?

What will you get?

This project is a nice opportunity to get affiliated with field work specifically associated with birds, as well as to understand how scientific research is conducted and published in one of the leading ecological institutes in Europe. Students are welcome to be part of future publications if their contribution allows this.

Duration

Field season normally runs between beginning of April and beginning of July, so this is the minimum period required. Students interested in conducting Master’s theses are welcome to stay longer and work at NIOO also after the field season.

Requirements

Basic knowledge and interest in ecology, evolution and physiology are required. Students should be motivated to work 8 hours in the field per day, 6 days a week, and to drive 1-2 hours per day to move between sites. Driving license is essential.