PhD Assistantship – Carnivore community ecology: University of Michigan

School: University of Michigan

Location: Ann Arbor

Job Category: Graduate Assistantships

Website: http://lsa.umich.edu/eeb/people/faculty/nyeema.html

Salary: >$25,000

Start Date: 08/28/2017

Last Date to Apply: 11/23/2016

 

Description:

    Seeking PhD student to collaborate on the MESONICHE project with Dr. Nyeema Harris in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Michigan. Sympatric species within the same guilds coexist through various mechanisms to reduce competition. In this research, we aim to elucidate how mesocarnivores partition resources as well as their sensitivities to spatial variation in biotic conditions; specifically, prey availability, parasite load, and diversity of competitor species.
    The successful candidate will be expected to collaboratively develop a project that align with MESONICHE goals. This scholar will have full access to previous data including: 1) images from remote camera surveys conducted across three distinct geographies in Michigan 2015-2016; and scat collected from carnivores and associated sympatric prey as well as reference vegetation samples to incorporate in their dissertation. Student will assist in expanding study to include an urban area and contribute to citizen science project (Michigan ZoomIN). Current prey analysis via stable isotopes and molecular identification as well as gut microbial community analysis are underway. Camera and scat surveys will continue through 2018 with additional opportunities to incorporate museum species/records, stress hormones, or animal capture. Student will receive annual stipend of at least $25,000 + full tuition waiver + health insurance.
     Interested applicants should send CV including GRE scores, transcripts, and coverletter with research interests in a single PDF by November 23. After evaluation, strong applicants would be encouraged to apply for doctoral program prior to department deadline (DEC 1). Start date is negotiable between May - August 2017.

 

Qualifications:

    A MS degree or other substantial research experience. Candidates with a publication record, molecular experience, demonstrated public engagement, and strong quantitative skills will be highly competitive. For more information please contact: Nyeema Harris (carnivores@umich.edu).