Sample interview questions: Explain how you design and implement experiments to study animal navigation and migration.
Sample answer:
1. Define Study Objectives and Hypotheses:
- Clearly define the research questions and specific hypotheses you aim to investigate.
- Determine whether you’re studying navigation, migration, or a combination of both.
- Specify the animal species and environment where the study will take place.
2. Select Study Site and Animals:
- Choose a site that is suitable for the species and the type of navigation or migration you’re studying.
- Ensure the site has minimal human disturbance and provides natural conditions for the animals’ behavior.
- Select a representative sample of animals that are healthy and have the ability to navigate or migrate.
3. Design Experimental Setup:
- Set up the experimental arena or tracking system that will be used to follow the animals’ movements.
- Consider factors like the size, shape, and complexity of the experimental setup.
- Ensure the setup allows for precise measurement and monitoring of animal behavior.
4. Implement Tracking and Data Collection:
- Choose tracking methods appropriate for the species and the study site.
- Commonly used methods include radio telemetry, GPS tracking, and mark-recapture techniques.
- Ensure data collection methods minimize disturbance to the animals’ behavior.
5. Manipulate Environmental Variables:
- If your study involves investigating the effects of environmental factors on navigation or migration, manipulate specific variables.
- Common factors studied include light levels, temperature… Read full answer