I worked with Dr. John Hoogland at UMCES studying the bahvioral ecology of Gunnison's Prairie Dogs. Dr. Hoogland was great to work with and I really enjoyed being out in the field and interacting with wildlife.
What I wish was different
This position had EXTREMELY long hours out in the field with no days off. Our days ranged from 12 to 15 hours long for over 20 days straight. My boss was very upfront about the long hours but it still can be tough to get through.
Advice
As a research assistant, you work on your boss's project but do not hesitate to talk to your them and to find an independent side project like my fellow research assistants and I did! We are currently working on a paper about American Badger hunting activity!
