Subject: Field Assistant position in Bielefeld University We are looking for a field assistant to study the "Impact of Urbanisation on Songbird Reproduction" Location:Department of Behavioural Ecology, Bielefeld University, Germany Start Date:01.02.2026 Duration:6 months Application Deadline:7th of November, 2025. We invite applications for a Field Assistant (can also be a Master Student Internship) to join our research group in the Department of Behavioural Ecology at Bielefeld University, Germany (https://www.uni-bielefeld.de/fakultaeten/biologie/forschung/arbeitsgruppen/behav_eco/). The successful candidate will support our upcoming field season (February-July 2026) on the project "The impact of urbanisation on great tit and blue tit reproduction." This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in urban ecology and behavioural ecology while working in an international, collaborative environment. About the Project The project investigates how urbanisation shapes reproduction in two model songbird species: the great tit (Parus major) and the blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus). Fieldwork will focus on nest box populations across different urban habitats, combining behavioural monitoring, ecological data collection, and physiological sampling. Supervision will be provided by Dr. Oncu Maraci and Prof. Barbara Caspers. The working language of the group is English. Job Description As a Field Assistant, you will: Coordinate and perform daily monitoring of nest boxes across multiple city sites. Collect environmental and reproductive data. Help during capturing, ringing, and measuring the birds and sample collection Maintain accurate field records and contribute to data organisation. Support preliminary analyses and reporting. Qualifications Essential: Bachelor's degree in Biology, Ecology, Animal Behaviour, or a related discipline. Strong interest in behavioural and/or urban ecology. Previous fieldwork experience. Physical fitness and resilience to work long hours outdoors. Excellent organisational skills, reliability, and teamwork. Strong communication skills in spoken and written English. Desirable: Experience in handling wild birds. Bird ringing licence. Familiarity with statistical methods and R. Valid driving licence. What We Offer Training in nest box monitoring, bird handling, and techniques in urban ecology. A stimulating, supportive, and international research environment. Opportunity to base a Master's thesis on the project. Potential continuation towards a PhD, subject to future funding. Contribution to cutting-edge research with direct relevance to animal ecology and conservation. Financial compensation to help cover living expenses, adjusted according to the candidate's qualifications and experience. Application Please send your motivation letter and CV (in English) to Dr. Oncu Maracý (oncu.maraci@uni-bielefeld.de) by the 7th of November, 2025. For informal enquiries about the position, the research group, or living in Bielefeld, please contact Dr. Öncü Maracý (oncu.maraci@uni-bielefeld.de). Bielefeld University is an equal-opportunity employer. We particularly welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups. Oncu Maraci (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)