Monday, 7 November 2016

M.S. assistantships in community ecology: University of Rhode Island

School: University of Rhode Island
Location: Rhode Island
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: http://web.uri.edu/preisserlab/
Salary: 24K
Start Date: 08/31/2017
Last Date to Apply: 01/01/2017
 
Description:
    The Preisser Lab at the University of Rhode Island, as part of an NSF-funded collaboration with Colin Orians (Tufts University), is seeking two highly-motivated students for M.S. work in plant-insect ecology beginning in fall 2017. Full funding for two students will be provided as a combination of research and teaching assistantships, depending on student background and availability. Applicants should be independent, excited to work in a collaborative environment, and possess research, field, and/or modeling experience. Research in my lab addresses predator-prey and/or herbivore-plant interactions; specific research topics have included the population-level consequences of non-lethal interactions between predators and their prey and the effect(s) of interactions between invasive species on eastern forests. Detailed information about the lab is available at http://web.uri.edu/preisserlab/.
    Prospective students should contact me at preisser@uri.edu; please provide a short description of your research interests and accomplishments, a CV (including GPA and GRE scores), and contact information for three references. I will contact suitable candidates to discuss potential graduate projects and to set up an interview. Formal department review of applications will begin January 1, 2017, but interested students should contact me well before the application deadline. 

Qualifictions:
    Applicants should be independent, excited to work in a collaborative environment, and possess research, field, and/or modeling experience. Prospective students should contact me at preisser@uri.edu; please provide a short description of your research interests and accomplishments, a CV (including GPA and GRE scores), and contact information for three references.

Graduate Research Assistantships: Oklahoma State University

School: OK Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
Location: Stillwater
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: 16-18K annually plus benefits
Start Date: 01/05/2017
Last Date to Apply: 12/01/2016
 
Description:
     I am seeking MS candidates to examine different aspects of fish and stream ecology. Projects will focus on the spawning and recruitment ecology of Smallmouth Bass, and evaluating the effects of introduced Rainbow Trout on native fishes.
 
Qualifications: 
   Candidates with a strong interest in research topics are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to candidates with radio telemetry and/or experience identifying macroinvertebrates. Successful applicants will be dedicated students who are highly motivated to conduct research in the field and in a laboratory environment. Students will be funded on research assistantships, which include a competitive stipend, health insurance, and a tuition waiver.
    Prospective graduate students should send an e-mail to Dr. Shannon Brewer (shannon.brewer@okstate.edu) no later than December 1 with "Graduate Assistantship" in the title, and include:  
(1) Cover letter
(2) CV
(3) Statement of research interests and experience
(4) Scientific writing sample (e.g., laboratory report, undergraduate thesis, manuscript)
(5) GRE scores (if available; if not, indicate date the GRE will be taken)
(6) Unofficial copies of transcripts
(7) Contact information for three references working in fisheries, ecology, or a closely related field. Projects can begin sometime between Jan and June 2017.

Funded Environmental Science-Policy Master’s: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

School: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Location: Brownsville, Texas
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: $16,500 per year plus tuition ($6,520/yr.) for two years
Start Date: 01/17/2017
Last Date to Apply: 11/15/2016
 
Description:
    Dr. Owen Temby is searching for master's students to fund as part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (CCME). The successful applicant(s) will work with Dr. Temby on research on coastal wildlife and fishery governance at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), and will be integrated into an active research agenda involving a network of scholars at other institutions conducting related research. Each position is fully funded at a rate of $16,500 per year plus tuition ($6,520/yr.) for two years starting Spring 2017.
    The selected student(s) will be expected to enroll in one of UTRGV's master's programs. Available alternatives include:
1. M.S. in Ocean, Coastal, and Earth Sciences
2. Master of Public Affairs (MPA)
3. M.A. in Disaster Studies
   More information on these graduate programs is available on the website of UTRGV’s graduate college: http://www.utrgv.edu/graduate/for-future-students/graduate-programs/index.htm. Candidates are invited to submit via email:
1) A letter of interest outlining their skills and abilities
2) Curriculum vitae or resume
3) Contact information for three professional references to Dr. Owen Temby at owen.temby@utrgv.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until positions are filled. Only short-listed candidates will be notified. 

Qualifications:
    Disciplinary background is open, including social sciences (e.g., geography, sociology, political science) and natural sciences (e.g., marine biology, environmental sciences). A bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA is required for admission to graduate studies at UTRGV.
     Funding to support students under this announcement is provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce under award #NA16SEC4810009. As per the award terms and conditions, students supported under this program must meet the following eligibility criteria: students must be U.S. citizens, full-time postsecondary students, must maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average, and not engaged in full-time employment outside the program and/or academic institution. Because this is a position funded by NOAA’s Educational Partnership Program for Minority Serving Institutions (EPP-MSI), preference will be given to students representing minorities. For more information please contact: Dr. Owen Temby (owen.temby@utrgv.edu).

Friday, 4 November 2016

Graduate Assistantship (Ph.D.) in Fish Community Ecology: University of Alabama

School: University of Alabama
Location: Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: http://bama.ua.edu/~jghoweth/index.html
Salary: Competitive stipend, tuition waiver, health insurance
Start Date: 08/15/2017
Last Date to Apply: 12/05/2016
 
Description:
    The research project addresses the role of secondary succession in freshwater fish community structure using replicate beaver pond mosaics. This work will utilize field-based approaches in the streams and beaver ponds of the Talladega National Forest in Alabama, including the NSF NEON Domain 8 core site. The project will also involve dendrochronology, GIS/remote sensing, stable isotope analyses, and experiments at the UA Tanglewood Biological Station. This is a NSF-funded research project.
 
Qualifications:
     Candidates with a strong background in related research topics and venues are particularly encouraged to apply. Successful applicants will be dedicated students who are highly motivated to conduct research in the field and in a laboratory environment. Students will be funded on a combination of teaching and research assistantships, which include a competitive stipend, health insurance, and a tuition waiver. Highly qualified applicants will be considered for departmental Aquatic Biology Fellowships, which offer a research assistantship during the student’s first year.
Prospective graduate students should apply to the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alabama (http://bsc.ua.edu/graduate-program/applying-to-graduate-program/) AND send an e-mail to Dr. Jennifer Howeth (jghoweth@ua.edu) no later than December 5 with "Graduate Assistantship" in the title, and include: 
(1) Cover letter
(2) CV
(3) Statement of research interests and experience
(4) Scientific writing sample (e.g., laboratory report, thesis, manuscript)
(5) GRE scores (if available)
(6) Unofficial copies of transcripts
(7) Contact information for three references in biology/ecology.

Researcher/Potential Masters position: Texas Christian University

School: Texas Christian University
Location: Fort Worth, Texas/Muenster, Texas
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: Initial research position is $480 a week. In addition, teaching assistant stipend and tuition is available contingent on application and selection on the Masters program.
Start Date: 05/01/2017
Last Date to Apply: 11/30/2016
 
Description:
     In partnership with NextEra Energy Resources, we have been investigating the direct and indirect impacts of wind energy on birds and bats at Wolf Ridge Wind, LLC in north-central Texas since 2009. We have been testing potential mitigation strategies at wind turbine towers and in an experimental setting intended to reduce bat mortality at wind turbines. For the first of the two potential studies, we will be conducting field surveys at a wind resource facility, including fatality searches, acoustic monitoring and behavioral studies. For our second project, we will be conducting behavioral studies in a controlled setting and includes animal husbandry and mist netting. To assist in these research projects, we require researchers to organize, supervise, conduct day and nightly surveys, analyze video, and acoustic data and write progress reports. We are looking for candidates that would want to include and continue this research in our master’s program at TCU either in Biology or Environmental Science in August 2017. Please note that continuing this research as part of our Masters program will be dependent on performance on the project prior to August 2017.
     As part of the wind-wildlife research team, the candidate will also be required to conduct a number of additional duties including scheduling and training technicians, additional acoustic monitoring at the site, and potentially moth/insect trapping. The applicant will be expected to be able to coordinate with colleagues and problem solve on a daily basis to ensure that quality data are collected. This position requires a flexible, tolerant, and confident personality to be able to quickly and effectively address issues with weather constraints, software use and IT issues, equipment repairs, technical difficulties, work vehicle maintenance, and landowner interactions.

To apply:
    To apply, please e-mail (v.bennett@tcu.edu) with the following information: cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information (e-mail address and phone number) for three references. The cover letter must include all required responsibilities addressed to the best of your abilities as a series of bullet points. For more information please contact: Dr. Tory Bennett (v.bennett@tcu.edu).

Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
• More than three months continuous field work experience in wildlife ecology
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Demonstrated ability to communicate with a variety of people, including technicians, landowners, and supervisors
• Demonstrated ability to manage a diverse team of field technicians
• A strong background in data analysis
• Be willing to adhere to all personal safety requirements associated with working on a wind farm
• Ability to work in harsh weather conditions (primarily extreme heat)
• Ability to work alternating day and night schedule
• Be 21 or over in order to drive a work vehicle and have a valid clean U.S. driver’s license
• Must pass a criminal background check
• Up-to-date Rabies pre-exposure vaccination series
• >300 GRE score and GPA of >3.0 to be considered for the master’s program

Preferred Qualifications:
• Ability or interest in identifying bird and invertebrate species

PhD in Fish Ecology: Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi

School: Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Location: Corpus Christi, Texas
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: https://sites.google.com/site/waltherfishlab/
Salary: TBD
Last Date to Apply: 05/15/2017
 
Description:
    A PhD position in the field of fish ecology is available in the lab of Dr. Benjamin Walther at Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC). Positions will start in Fall 2017. Research topics are flexible, but would generally fall within current lab interests, including: fish migration, habitat use and trophic dynamics; hypoxia effects on fishes; otolith chemistry and stable isotopes; and chemical marking techniques for aquaculture applications. The PhD position will be supported through the Marine Biology degree program at TAMU-CC. Information about this program is online at http://marinebiology.tamucc.edu/

About the lab: 
    We conduct research on a variety of topics related to fish ecology, migration, habitat use and population connectivity. This work generally focuses on using the “natural tag” properties of carbonate hard parts such as otoliths in marine and diadromous fishes to examine patterns of migration, dispersal, and life history dynamics of species with mobile phases. This field has grown exponentially in the past couple of decades, yet significant unknowns remain about highly migratory or dispersive species, particularly in the marine environment. Otolith chemistry has the potential to reveal key information about identity and movement patterns that is essential for the effective management of exploited species and ecosystems.
     We are located at Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi in the Department of Life Sciences. We collaborate with the Texas Parks and Wildlife CCA Marine Development Center in Corpus Christi, TX for experimental work with larval and juvenile fishes. We also work closely with members of the University of Texas Jackson School of Geosciences, which houses an array of analytical instruments including laser ablation ICP-MS (multiple and single collectors), TIMS, and isotope ratio mass spectrometers. Further information about the Walther Lab can be found online at: www.sites.google.com/site/waltherfishlab.

Qualifications:
     Interested students should send: 
(1) A CV
(2) Copies of unofficial transcripts
(3) A cover letter describing experience, potential research interests, and general career goals to Dr. Benjamin Walther at: benjamin.walther@tamucc.edu

Wednesday, 2 November 2016

Ph.D. Opportunity in Conservation Science at Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William & Mary

School: Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William & Mary
Location: Gloucester Point, Virginia
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: http://www.vims.edu/gateways/prospectivestudents/index.php
Salary: $25,000
Start Date: 08/22/2017
Last Date to Apply: 01/05/2017
 
Description:
      The Center for Coastal Resources Management at Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William & Mary has an opening for a Ph.D student in the area of Community Ecology to start fall 2017. The student will be supported as a graduate research assistant as part of an NSF-funded project on coastal resiliency in Chesapeake Bay. This research will examine the interactions of climate change, management decisions and marsh ecological functions to simulate and select climate change adaptation strategies that will support a sustainable system. The student will participate in data collection and synthesis efforts in Virginia to comparatively quantify multiple ecosystem functions of living shorelines and natural marshes along a continuum of shorescape settings. The student’s research will likely focus on the quantification of marsh ecosystem services, such as habitat provision (invertebrate, fish, bird, turtle abundance, biomass, diversity), primary production, nutrient and carbon storage for both natural marshes and the ‘preferred’ shoreline protection strategy, living shorelines, within shorescapes representing the continuum of marsh connectivity conditions. The graduate student can and will develop a project and associated research questions tailored to their interests and intended career path.
      This position will be based in the Department of Biological Sciences at VIMS, but there are opportunities for co-advising with the Environmental Science and Policy Program, College of William & Mary. The positions will be supported with a stipend (approximately $25,000/year), and paid tuition/benefits.  More information about the CCRM lab is available at: http://ccrm.vims.edu/, more information about the ESPP labs is available at http://rmcham.people.wm.edu/ and http://wmpeople.wm.edu/mle.
      Potential PhD students should send their CV, transcripts (unofficial are perfectly fine), GRE scores, and a brief statement of research interests related to this project to Dr. Donna Bilkovic at donnab@vims.edu. Formal applications to the Virginia Institute of Marine Science should be complete by January 5, 2017. More information on the Graduate Program can be found here: http://www.vims.edu/education/graduate/index.php and http://www.vims.edu/gateways/prospectivestudents/index.php

Qualifications:
     Applicants should be self-motivated and also capable of working as part of a team. The ideal applicant will have experience and interest in conservation science, ecosystem services, community ecology, as well an interest in spatial modeling. Additional skills for the PhD position include statistical analysis, technical writing, and GIS.

Graduate Student in Marine Ecology: University of South Alabama

Agency: Dauphin Island Sea Lab/University of South Alabama
Location: Dauphin Island, AL
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: http://www.disl.org
Salary: TBD
Start Date: 08/01/2017
Last Date to Apply: 02/01/2017
 
Description:
     We are seeking up to two graduate students in Marine Ecology. Student opportunities are available in:
1) Shell- or fin- fisheries physiology and microbiology as part of a joint program between DISL and the USFDA on Dauphin Island.
2) Marine mammal population ecology and/or pathology (experience with marine mammal observation, stranding and necropsy response, and/or photo-identification is preferred). 

Qualifications:
     Students must meet the minimum qualifications for entry to the University of South Alabama graduate school of Arts and Sciences and the Marine Sciences Department and have relevant coursework in the topic area of interest. Students will apply through the University of South Alabama (USA) and must apply for appropriate fellowship funding through FDA/DISL and/or USA, with final selection pending funding. Qualified candidates should send a brief email of inquiry, including an updated CV, GRE scores and GPA showing they meet the minimum qualifications to: Ruth Carmichael (rcarmichael@disl.org).
 
 

Bison Spatial Ecology MS Position: University of Nebraska – Kearney

School: University of Nebraska - Kearney
Location: Kearney, NE
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: http://www.ranglacklab.com
Salary: 10100
Start Date: 08/01/2017
Last Date to Apply: 11/30/2016
 
Description:
    The Ranglack Lab (Wildlife Ecology, Conservation, and Management) at University of Nebraska Kearney is seeking a Masters student interested in bison spatial ecology to begin Fall 2017. The student will have access to multiple GPS datasets from bison herds across their current range to examine the spatial scale necessary for ecological bison restoration. This involves using advanced statistical techniques and requires experience with managing and analyzing large datasets in R. Prospective students interested in bison ecology and/or spatial ecology are encouraged to apply. Funding for a 9-month teaching assistantship ($10,100) and tuition remission is available for a minimum of two years, pending satisfactory progress. The student will be expected to apply for additional external funding, must maintain a 3.0 GPA, and will teach general biology labs for non-majors.

Application Process:
    Applications due November 30th. Please send one pdf file that includes a cover letter, CV (with GPA and GRE scores), and names and contact addresses of three references to Dr. Dustin Ranglack at ranglackdh@unk.edu, with the subject line “Bison MS position”. 

Qualifications:
    Prospective students should have: a degree in ecology, biology or related discipline and experience in GIS and R. Applicants must have excellent English writing and verbal communication skills, as well as the ability to work with and lead a research team. A minimum GRE score of 290 and 3.0 undergraduate GPA required. For more information please contact: Dustin Ranglack (ranglackdh@unk.edu).

Tuesday, 1 November 2016

Graduate Student, Natural Resources: University of Idaho

School: University of Idaho, McCall Outdoor Science School
Location: McCall, Idaho
Job Category; Graduate Assistantships
Website: http://www.uidaho.edu/moss
Salary: N/A
Start Date; 08/07/2017
Last Date to Apply: 01/15/2017
 
Description:
     University of Idaho McCall Outdoor Science School, Live, learn, and teach in the mountains! Looking for a rewarding MS program combining ecology, science communication, and field-based teaching? The University of Idaho's award-winning* McCall Outdoor Science School (MOSS) is accepting applications for next year's graduate student class. Start date is August, 2017.
     Gain hands-on, outdoor teaching experience, study ecology in a field setting, and develop leadership skills while living in the spectacular natural environment of McCall, Idaho. As a University of Idaho MOSS graduate student, you will change lives by providing field-based environmental education programs for 5th and 6th grade students and teachers, and use those experiences as the foundation of your M.NR or M.S/Ph.D.. degree. Because MOSS is a program of the UI College of Natural Resources, students can earn a Master of Science in Natural Resources in as little as three semesters. To learn more about MOSS, visit http://www.uidaho.edu/moss. Applications are currently being accepted. 

Qualifications:
For more information and to apply, please visit http://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/moss/programs/graduate-program. For further questions, please contact: Dr. Karla Eitel (keitel@uidaho.edu).

Graduate Assistantships (M.S. and Ph.D.) in Fisheries Research: University of Georgia

School: University of Georgia - Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources
Location: Athens, Georgia
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: Full Stipend, tuition waiver, health insurance
Start Date: 07/05/2017
Last Date to Apply: 12/01/2016
 
Description:
    Several M.S. and Ph. D. assistantships are currently available at the UGA Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources beginning any time from May-Aug, 2017. Successful applicants will join new or ongoing field studies of Atlantic, Shortnose, or Gulf sturgeon in several southeastern rivers. Current research areas include population dynamics, life history, recruitment mechanisms, and seasonal habitat use.
 
Qualifications:
     BS (or MS for PhD post) in biology, ecology, fisheries/wildlife biology, or related area. Previous experience with field research is desirable but not required. Applicants with a GPA > 3.2 and GRE > 310 (1200 under old scoring system) in math and verbal, combined, are competitive.

To Apply:
    Please send unofficial copies of:
(1) Transcripts
(2) GRE scores
(3) Resume with contact info for three references
(4) A letter of application that specifically address how your interests and qualifications make you a good fit for a research position in the Peterson lab (publications available at: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Douglas_Peterson3
     For more information please contact: Dr. Douglas L. Peterson (dpeterson@warnell.ugh.edu).

M.S. Assistantship in Small Mammal Ecology: Arkansas Tech University.

School: Arkansas Tech University
Location: Russellville, Arkansas
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: http://www.atu.edu
Salary $13,200 plus tuition waiver. Students may also qualify for $2000 AGFC Conservation Scholarship
Start Date: 01/17/2017
Last Date to Apply: 12/15/2016
 
Description:
     Position starts as soon as January 17 (spring semester), but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. This is a teaching assistantship and research area is small mammal ecology. Specific research topic will be developed by the M.S. student. Experience with capture and handling of small mammals is a plus, as is experience with statistics and GIS. I am looking for a student who thinks independently, works hard, and is intellectually curious.
 
Qualifications:
     Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate College, have completed a bachelor’s degree in a biological science, and taken the GRE. Some work will be under adverse weather conditions. To be considered for the position send a letter of interest stating your research interests, copies of transcripts (unofficial okay), GRE scores (unofficial okay), and a resume to Dr. Tom Nupp at: tnupp@atu.edu.

Sunday, 30 October 2016

M.S. Assistantship – Influence of Volunteer Associations on Lake Water Quality: Virginia Tech.

School: Virginia Tech
Location: Blacksburg, VA
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website http://sorice.frec.vt.edu/research-opportunities/
Salary: $22,716
Start Date: 08/15/2017
Last Date to Apply: 12/01/2016
 
Description:
     A new position is open for an M.S. student to collaborate with a research team working to understand how citizen-organized lake associations influence lake management efforts and environmental outcomes. This position is part of a NSF project that models catchment-scale limnological, hydrological, and socio-economic dynamics at multiple sites in the U.S. The successful applicant will conduct qualitative research to understand how the efforts and goals of lake associations have evolved over time to shape lake management and environmental outcomes. Key methods include document analysis and interviews. The applicant will also conduct focus groups and survey research to understand current levels of engagement and community trust in lake associations. The applicant will collaborate with other graduate students and interact with post docs and faculty associated with the project to integrate their research findings into policy scenarios.
     The student will enroll in the M.S. degree program in Virginia Tech’s Department of Forest Resources & Environmental Conservation. Funding is for two years; a full graduate research assistantship (with stipend) and tuition waiver will be provided. The start date can be as early as January 2017; otherwise, the start date will be August 2017. We will start reviewing applications December 1st. Interested students are encouraged to send the following as a single pdf document: 
1) A brief cover letter describing their professional background, relevant research experience and interests, career goals, and reasons for seeking an M.S. degree
2) A current curriculum vitae/resume
3) Names and contact information for three references,
4) An unofficial copy of transcripts and GRE scores directly to:

Michael G. Sorice
Department of Forest Resources & Environmental Conservation
310 W. Campus Drive
Blacksburg, VA 24061
(540) 231-8303 | m-sorice@vt.edu
http://sorice.frec.vt.edu
 
Qualifications:
     Relevant undergraduate areas of specialization include: environmental studies, political science, anthropology, sociology, and communications.

PhD Positions in Plant Ecology: Utah State University

School: Utah State University
Location: Logan, Utah
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: http://seedscape.github.io/BeckmanLab/GraduatePosition.html
Salary: TBD
Last Date to Apply: 01/15/2017
 
Description:
    PhD positions are available beginning Fall of 2017 in the research group of Dr. Noelle G. Beckman in the Department of Biology and Ecology Center at Utah State University. The Beckman Lab investigates interactions between plants and their environment occurring over multiple scales and examines the role of these interactions in limiting plant populations and maintaining biodiversity. Many of these interactions are disrupted by global change, and we examine the consequences of these disruptions for plant communities and ecosystem functions. The research group uses a combination of empirical and quantitative approaches to address our research questions. Examples of ongoing projects include: 
1) Synthesizing data with mathematical models to predict extinction risk of plant species to climate change
2) Understanding the importance of seed dispersal under global change
3) Examining the influence of dispersal and plant consumers on plant spatial patterns
     Before applying, interested candidates should contact Dr. Beckman (nbeckman AT sesync.org) with a letter of interest, CV, and contact information for two references. The recommended date to pre-apply is December 1 and application to the School of Graduate Studies is January 15 for full consideration of financial support. The Beckman Lab is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. 

Qualifications:
Previous research experience
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
Strong written and oral communication skills
Strong quantitative skills and/or interest in developing quantitative skills
   For more information please contact: Dr. Noelle Beckman (nbeckman@sesync.org)

MS in Aquatic Ecology: Tennessee Tech University

School: Tennessee Tech University
Location: Cookeville, TN
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: https://sites.tntech.edu/jnmurdock/
Salary: Student would serve as a teaching assistant in the Department of Biology at Tennessee Tech. Monthly stipend is $1200 with tuition and fees covered.
Start Date: 01/01/2017
Last Date to Apply: 11/30/2017
 
Description:
     An assistantship is available for a MS student to work on a project evaluating the impacts of agricultural runoff on headwater stream/oxbow lake structure and function in the Mississippi River Alluvial Plain. This is a collaborative project with the USDA National Sedimentation Laboratory. Potential areas of research for this student include linking water quantity to denitrification, GHG emissions, or algal structure and function.
     Interested applicants should send a CV, cover letter describing experience and goals, unofficial transcripts, and contact information of two individuals familiar with research/academic performance to Dr. Justin Murdock at jnmurdock@tntech.edu.TTU application information can be found at https://www.tntech.edu/graduatestudies/graduateadmissions/.
 
Qualifications:
     Preferred Qualifications: Undergraduate degree in aquatic sciences (minimum G.P.A. of 3.0); Ability to conduct field research under rigorous conditions; Experience with chemical analyses. For additional information please contact:  Dr. Justin Murdock (jnmurdock@tntech.edu).

Research assistant for Prescribed burning of cordgrass: Texas A&M University – Kingsville.

School: Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute / Texas A&M University
Location: Kingsville and Port Mansfield, Texas
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: $1,400/month plus benefits (medical package has a 60-day waiting period). Nonresident tuition waived (resident tuition fees apply). Partial tuition fee assistance may be provided based on availability of funds.
Start Date: 01/02/2017
Last Date to Apply: 12/15/2016
 
Description:
   Successful applicant will study effects of patch burning in varying seasons on cordgrass vegetative communities and livestock distribution on the South Texas Gulf Coast. Project goals include determining herbaceous biomass, species diversity, and effects on below-ground plant tissue. Position also requires work on related projects as requested. Successful candidate will pursue an M.S. degree in Range and Wildlife Management at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
 
Qualifications:
   B.S. degree in range, wildlife, ecology, biology, or a related field, minimum 3.0 GPA, and competitive GRE scores. Successful applicant must be capable of working outdoors under adverse field conditions (hot humid Texas environment), identifying plant species and assisting with prescribed burns; must have a strong work ethic, good verbal and written communication skills, ability to work well with landowners, ranch managers, and employees, and ability to work independently and within a group; must be able to drive state vehicles within 30 days of employment. For more information please contact: Dr. Sandra Rideout-Hanzak (sandra.rideout-hanzak@tamuk.edu).

Tuesday, 25 October 2016

MS Research Assistantships in Coastal Ecology and Resource Management Research: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

School: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Location: Brownsville, Texas
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: of$15,000 per year plus tuition ($6,520/yr)
Start Date: 01/17/2017
Last Date to Apply: 11/15/2016
 
Description:
   The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) is offering two Graduate Research Assistantships for masters-level students in coastal ecology and resource management research. Projects will focus on various functional and structural characteristics of estuarine and other coastal systems (i.e. Rio Grande deltaic habitats), as related to the mission of the multi-institutional National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (CCME). The mission of the CCME is to educate and train a new generation of scientists, particularly from underrepresented minority communities, in NOAA-relevant Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines and social sciences, equipped to utilize interdisciplinary approaches to address issues confronting marine and coastal communities. Successful applicants will be expected to enroll, full time, in UTRGV’s Ocean, Coastal and Earth Sciences Masters program working under the supervision of Dr. Cintra Buenrostro or Dr. Fierro-Cabo (project co-PIs). Each position is fully funded at a rate of $15,000 per year plus tuition ($6,520/yr.) for two years starting Spring 2017. As an equal opportunity employer UTRGV does not discriminate on the ground of race, national origin, handicap, age, religion, or sex.
    Candidates are invited to submit via email:
1) A letter of interest outlining their skills and abilities
2) Curriculum vitae or resume
3) Contact information for three professional references to Dr. Carlos E. Cintra Buenrostro (Carlos.Cintra@utrgv.edu). 
    Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until positions are filled. 

Qualifications:
     B. S. in ecology, biology, or closely related fields. A strong work ethic, ability to work independently and as a member of a research team, and ability to work under the hot humid South Texas climate are essential.
Funding to support students under this announcement is provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce under award #NA16SEC4810009. As per the award terms and conditions, students supported under this program must meet the following eligibility criteria: students must be U.S. citizens, full-time postsecondary students, must maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average, and not engaged in full-time employment outside the program and/or academic institution. Because this is a position funded by NOAA’s Educational Partnership Program for Minority Serving Institutions (EPP-MSI), preference will be given to students representing minorities. For additional information please contact: Dr. Carlos E. Cintra Buenrostro (Carlos.Cintra@utrgv.edu).

Graduate Assistantships (Ph.D. and M.S.) Cichlid Evolution and Behavior at Central Michigan University.

School: Central Michigan University
Location: Mt. Pleasant, MI
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: TBD
Last Date to Apply: 11/30/2016
 
Description:
   Graduate student (Ph.D. and Master’s) positions available in Dr. Dijkstra’s lab at Central Michigan University starting Fall 2017. Are you interested in animal behavior and physiology? We are seeking students to join us in studying the evolution of behavioral and color diversity in East African cichlids. Our current projects combine behavioral experiments and molecular biology to address the physiological basis of color signaling in cichlid fish. We are seeking enthusiastic scientists with an outstanding academic record and experience at the molecular bench. The Biology Department has just moved to a brand new building with open lab spaces. This creates a vibrant research environment where students can develop their own project and can collaborate with others in existing projects. Our lab is also affiliated with the Institute of Great Lakes Research exposing our students to aquatic ecology and conservation biology.
    Student funding is available in the form of research assistantships (the Ph.D. candidate will have four years of full RA funding) and teaching assistantships that cover stipend and tuition waivers.
    Interested prospective students should contact Dr. Peter D. Dijkstra (dijks1p@cmich.edu) with: 
(i) A statement of interest
(ii) Current CV, 
(iii) Transcripts (unofficial is sufficient)
(iv) GRE scores (if you have them)
 v) Contact information of 3 references. 
    Review of applicants will start Nov 15, 2016. For Additional information please visit Dijkstra lab:
https://www.cmich.edu/colleges/cst/biology/Pages/Peter-D.-Dijkstra.aspx.
 
Qualifications:
    B.S. in Biology; We are looking for students with experience in molecular bench work and/or programming skills (in for example R).
 

MS Assistantship: Wildlife Ecology and Conservation: San Diego State University, California.

School: San Diego State University
Location: San Diego, CA
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Website: http://www.conservationecologylab.com/
Salary: $13,000 plus benefits
Start Date; 08/01/2017
Last Date to Apply: 12/01/2016
 
Description:
    The Conservation Ecology Lab (www.conservationecologylab.com) at San Diego State University seeks a self-motivated and hardworking graduate student at the M.S. level to conduct research on mule deer ecology and conservation through an assessment of population estimation techniques in partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The goal of this project is to implement a population survey of southern mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus fuliginatus) in southern California and to determine how the efficacy of survey methodologies varies across terrain and vegetation. The research project will focus on applied conservation science, and wildlife, landscape, and quantitative ecology. Potential research questions may include topics related to setting conservation targets for local deer populations, identification of wildlife corridors to support deer populations, and how built landscape features (e.g., roads and urbanization) may affect mule deer demographics in southern California.
 
Qualifications
Minimum qualifications:
• Overall undergraduate GPA > 2.85 for the last 60 semester units, and at least 3.0 for all upper division biology courses.
• General GRE scores of at least 156 Verbal, 150 Quantitative, and 4.5 Writing. A GRE Biology subject test is not required.
• For foreign students, a minimum score on the TOEFL exam of 550 (paper exam) or 80 (computer-based exam) is required.
• A Bachelor's degree in Biology or related Field (e.g., Environmental Science, Range Management) from any accredited college or university, with coursework comparable to the undergraduate program in Biology at San Diego State University. Students may be asked to take additional coursework to fill curriculum deficits.

Preferred qualifications:
• Demonstrated interest in conservation and wildlife ecology
• Experience in independent research and development of research questions
• Experience in field work – ability to hike long distances in difficult terrain and operate 4x4 manual transmission vehicles
• Strong writing skills

To apply:
    To apply, submit the following to Drs. Megan Jennings (mjennings@mail.sdsu.edu) and Rebecca Lewison (rlewison@mail.sdsu.edu) by Dec 1, 2016:
1) Cover letter summarizing your interest in the position, qualifications, experience, and research and career goals
2) Curriculum Vitae
3) Academic transcripts (unofficial ok)
4) GRE scores (unofficial ok)
5) Names and contacts for three professional references
    Selected applicant will also be required to apply for admission to the San Diego State Master’s program in Ecology. Applications for Fall 2017 admission to the MS program are due on February 1, 2017. For more information on the program, visit http://www.bio.sdsu.edu/ecology/prog_ms.php.

Friday, 21 October 2016

Graduate Assistantship in Greater Sage-Grouse Ecology: University of Idaho

School: University of Idaho
Location: Moscow, Idaho
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: Approximately $22,000/yr plus tuition and fees
Start Date: 01/12/2017
Last Date to Apply: 11/01/2016
 
Description:
    I am seeking an outstanding student to pursue a MSc in Natural Resources in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Sciences at the University of Idaho. The student’s thesis will involve studying the habitat ecology of greater sage-grouse, specifically evaluating grouse demographic responses to habitat treatments including juniper removal. The successful applicant will be responsible for: 
(1) Conducting two field seasons of survey work in southern Idaho. 
(2) Analyzing and interpreting data collected from the field. 
(3) Publishing results from the study in peer-reviewed journals. Fieldwork involves plant species identification in rangeland habitats.
    The successful applicant will be funded through a research assistantship. The student will be advised by Dr. Tracey Johnson (website: http://traceynjohnson.com). 

Qualifications:
    Bachelor’s degree in wildlife science, range science, or related field; minimum GPA 3.0; competitive GRE scores. Applicants with strong quantitative skills, a background in avian ecology (particularly those with grouse experience), and experience conducting research in sagebrush steppe or western grasslands will be given preference. The successful applicant must be capable of collecting data under adverse field conditions and of successfully supervising field technicians in remote locations; must have a strong work ethic, strong verbal communication and writing skills, and the ability to work well independently and with state and federal agency personnel; and must have a driving record that will allow use of state vehicles.
 
To apply: 
     Email the following information to traceyj@uidaho.edu
1. Personal statement – this should describe your research interests and career goals, and explain how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate for this project. (2 pp. max)
2. CV
3. Transcripts (unofficial okay)
4. GRE scores (unofficial okay)
5. Contact information for three references
     The selected student is expected to enroll at the University of Idaho in the spring semester of 2017,. Applicants can find additional details on the graduate programs at: http://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/students/graduate-students. For additional information please contact: Tracey Johnson (traceyj@uidaho.edu).