Listings will be kept for a month after being posted or until their
deadline (if listed). I do not post positions that require a masters
degree, as this site is aimed at undergraduates. Please send any
opportunities not listed here by clicking on this link:
PhD Scholarship in the School of Plant
Biology at The University of Western Australia Ecophysiology of a canker-affected eucalypt species
This PhD project is part of a larger ARC linkage project
entitled: "Understanding the underlying causes and practical
management solutions to marri (Corymbia calophylla)
decline in the South West of Western Australia". Marri is an iconic
overstory eucalypt species which is widely distributed throughout
the south-west of WA. Stem cankers on marri have been found to occur
throughout SW Australia since the late 1960's, with increasing rates
of mortality attributed to cankers in the 1970's and recommendations
to urgently determine cause and effect and to develop options for
disease control in the 1990's. More recently it was shown that the
incidence and severity of the disease was increasing and that large
bleeding cankers on the trunk and branches were caused by a novel
pathogen (Quambalaria coyrecup). Today more than 80% of trees
of all age classes are infected in some areas by a range of Quambalaria
species, with the potential for major economic, social and
ecological implications. The increase in disease occurrence and
severity is likely to be at least partly associated with the
decreasing rainfall in the SW of Australia which has resulted in
declining groundwater tables and severely drought-stressed
ecosystems.
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to determine how
genotype and environment interact to influence plant condition and
disease progression, and how disease affects plant condition.
Drought stress will be of particular interest. Experimental work
will involve glasshouse trials, common garden experiments as well as
work in natural stands and will involve a range of techniques
including measurements of gas-exchange, sapflow rates and water
potential. A background in plant ecophysiology, with experience in
plant water relations or in plant phytopathology is desirable. The
successful candidate will work in close collaboration with other
partners on the Linkage grant (i.e. at Murdoch University and the
Department of Environment and Conservation) and will be part of the
multidisciplinary state-funded Centre of Excellence for Climate
Change Woodland & Forest Health.
For more information about the Centre of Excellence for Climate
Change Woodland & Forest Health: http://www.foresthealth.com.au/
Closing date for the position is 20 July 2013.
Posted 6/18/13 Ph.D. studentships in Amphibian Disease
Ecology at James Cook University
We have funding from the Australian Research Council to support 2-3
exceptional PhD students who will work on a collaborative project
investigating amphibian disease in northern Australia. The disease
chytridiomycosis caused declines, local extirpations, and probably
global extinctions of many species of rainforest frogs in the Wet
Tropics of northern Queensland during initial outbreaks in the late
1980s and early to mid 1990s.
Our research group was the first to notice and document these
declines, and we have been studying them intensively for over 20
years. We have discovered that the interactions between the
amphibian chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, Bd)
and frogs are very complex. Frogs' behaviour affects their
exposure to transmission of the infection, and whether infected
frogs simply carry the infection asymptomatically or develop severe
disease and die is affected by their choice of
microenvironment. The effects of infections are also
influenced by antimicrobial secretions produced by frogs' skins; our
work on these shows they may have evolved to increase the resistance
of some populations to the disease. We are now also working on
how the fate of infected frogs can be modified by other microbes
inhabiting their skins; we have shown that many bacteria that live
on frogs produce metabolites that fight Bd infections, and it may be
possible to probiotically manipulate them to reduce the
susceptibility of frogs in nature.
Although many populations of frogs seem to be secure, because we do
not as yet understand how combinations of environmental factors
affect the vulnerability of populations to decline, it is entirely
possible that a new wave of population crashes could occur as
weather and climate conditions shift in the near future. We
are seeking students to participate in the current phase of our
work, which is focused on gaining a thorough understanding of
exactly what determines the tipping point beyond which a mild,
common infection becomes an epidemic outbreak of a fatal disease.
Our group has collaborative links with other researchers worldwide;
these have been highly productive of ideas and publications (see for
example Prof. Alford's research portfolio and publication links,
below), and mean that our students have a range of opportunities
available upon completion. Recent Ph.D. graduates in this
field supervised by Prof. Alford are presently academic or research
staff or postdocs at New Mexico State University, the Australian
Museum, Plymouth University (UK), and the University of Colorado,
and have previously had postdoctoral positions funded by the
Australian Research Council, Vanderbilt University, the University
of California, Berkeley, and the University of Zurich, among other
institutions.
Projects (field-based, laboratory-based, or both) will focus on any
of these topics:
1. Determining how chytridiomycosis affects populations by measuring
fitness and mortality rates of infected and uninfected frogs in
populations coexisting with endemic Bd infections.
2. Determining the relationship between frog microenvironment
selection and behaviour and fine-scale infection dynamics, to
determine rates of transmission and loss of infections, persistence
of the pathogen in environmental reservoirs, and what causes the
population of pathogens on an individual host to increase to the
point of causing morbidity or mortality, persist at lower levels, or
disappear.
3. Determining whether frogs that have reappeared at sites from
which they were extirpated have recolonised or recovered in situ,
and what changes in the host-pathogen system have allowed them to do
this.
4. Developing and performing preliminary tests of techniques that
may favour coexistence of frogs with the pathogen, and develop
recommendations for conservation actions.
Students should be available to start in February 2014 and will be
based at James Cook University in Townsville, Australia. We will
only accept students who obtain PhD scholarships, which cover living
expenses (ca. AU$24,600K/year) and tuition. Scholarships are highly
but not impossibly competitive, and are awarded to students with
these minimum qualifications:
1.A first class Honours degree, or a Master's degree with a research
component. In exceptional cases they have been awarded to
international students with Bachelor's degrees, research experience,
and high-quality first-authored publications.
2.Very good to excellent grade point average
3.Research experience, in the field or laboratory
4.Strong recommendation letters
5.A first-authored peer-reviewed publication (this is particularly
important for international students; applicants with publications
are much more likely to obtain scholarships, but if you excel in
other areas this is not a strict requirement)
The scholarship deadline for international applicants is 31 August
2013, and for domestic (Australian) applicants is 31 October 2013.
Please send a CV, one page cover letter detailing your experience
and interests, contact details for 3 references, and unofficial
transcripts to david.pike22@gmail.com
with "PhD position" in the subject line. We will narrow down the
pool of interested students and work with 2-3 individuals on their
scholarship applications. TO BE CONSIDERED, APPLICATION MATERIALS
MUST BE RECEIVED BY 5 JULY 2013.
Posted 6/16/13 Graduate assistantships: Forest Ecology
& Fire Ecology
1) Forest Demography
I am seeking applications for a graduate student at either the MS or
PhD level looking to work in large forest demography plots - the
Yosemite Forest Dynamics Plot, the Wind River Forest Dynamics Plot,
and the naissant Utah Forest Dynamics Plot, all affiliated with the
Smithsonian CTFS global network of forest plots. This position can
involve studies of woody species demography, diversity,
productivity, vertical and horizontal structure, or disturbance.
This opening is at Utah State University, where I will be joining
the faculty in autumn of 2013. Andrew Larson (University of Montana)
is a collaborator on this project.
Qualifications
When enquiring, please include sufficient information to begin a
dialog (at a minimum, your CV, an unofficial transcript, and GRE
scores). Please also read some of my publications and those of my
collaborators on related topics. The minimum GRE scores required for
admission to Utah State University are the 40th percentile. But
because our work in fire ecology, landscape ecology, and community
ecology is computationally and quantitatively intense, I prefer
students with good quantitative backgrounds (science, math, or
engineering), and quantitative GRE scores above the 85th percentile
(although that is certainly not a requirement). Our work environment
includes R for statistics, MySQL for database work, ESRI for GIS and
remote sensing, ENVI for spectral remote sensing, FUSION for LiDAR
remote sensing, and Trimble and Leica for surveying. Any experience
with those tools is great but not required. Paradoxically, field
experience is not a requisite for application, but you will probably
be doing a lot of it (I provide considerable in-the-field training
for my students). My objective is to work as a partner with students
to produce significant work, publishable in high quality journals.
2) Fire Severity
I am seeking applications for a graduate student at the MS level to
join an ongoing project examining patterns of fire severity and
their relations to climate variability ("Disappearing refugia:
identifying trends and resilience in unburned islands under climate
change"). This opening is at Utah State University, where I will be
joining the faculty in autumn of 2013. Crystal Kolden (University of
Idaho) is a collaborator on this project.
Qualifications
When enquiring, please include sufficient information to begin a
dialog (at a minimum, your CV, an unofficial transcript, and GRE
scores). Please also read some of my publications and those of my
collaborators on related topics. The minimum GRE scores required for
admission to Utah State University are the 40th percentile. But
because our work in fire ecology, landscape ecology, and community
ecology is computationally and quantitatively intense, I prefer
students with good quantitative backgrounds (science, math, or
engineering), and quantitative GRE scores above the 85th percentile
(although that is certainly not a requirement). Our work environment
includes R for statistics, MySQL for database work, ESRI for GIS and
remote sensing, ENVI for spectral remote sensing, FUSION for LiDAR
remote sensing, and Trimble and Leica for surveying. Any experience
with those tools is great but not required. Paradoxically, field
experience is not a requisite for application, but you will probably
be doing a lot of it (I provide considerable in-the-field training
for my students). My objective is to work as a partner with students
to produce significant work, publishable in high quality journals.
From autumn semester:
James A Lutz
Assistant Professor, Forest Ecology
Utah State University
Posted 6/12/13 M.S. Project Assistantship:
Assessing the Importance of Cape Cod National Seashore to
Staging Endangered Roseate Terns
Virginia Tech Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation
The goals of this collaborative project will be to assess 1) the
importance of Cape Cod National Seashore to the fall staging
population of the federally-endangered Roseate Tern (Sterna
dougallii) and 2) the impacts of human activities on the
Seashore on Roseate Tern adults and chicks during this staging
period. This is a unique opportunity to work collaboratively
with scientists from the National Park Service (which is the funding
agency), MassAudubon, SUNY ESF, and USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research
Center. We will also partner with and work closely with breeding
colony managers and scientists from throughout the U.S. and Canadian
range of this endangered species.
We have several major objectives to this study. This advertisement
is for a M.S. student to focus on one of the objectives related to
the interactions of parents and hatch-year chicks.
Specifically, we will work to quantify the time-activity
budgets of hatch-year roseate terns on the fall staging grounds at
Cape Cod National Seashore and we will assess the potential effects
of human activities on the Seashore on the hatch-year birds and on
the cohesiveness of parent-offspring groups.
This advertisement is for a M.S. student for the Department of Fish
and Wildlife Conservation at Virginia Tech. This student will
be advised by Sarah Karpanty, but will also work closely with all
partners described above, especially Kathy Parsons and Ellen Jedrey
(MassAudubon), Jon Cohen (SUNY ESF), Jeff Spendelow (USGS) and Mary
Hake (NPS). The student must also work collaboratively with
roseate tern scientists and managers throughout the species' range.
Data collected will include, but is not limited to, tern
behavior, tern and shorebird abundance, IDs of metal and plastic
field-readable bands, survival, prey composition, human activities
and habitat selection. A research and/or teaching assistantship at a
competitive level will be provided during the field-work and thesis
preparation. Expected duration of assistantship and project is
3 years.
Duties: Complete study design in consultation with major
professor (Sarah Karpanty) and co-investigators; collect behavioral,
demographic and ecological data to test hypotheses and fit models;
supervise technicians; operate trucks, boats, and ATVs; coordinate
with the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
USGS, SUNY ESF, MassAudubon, the state biologists for Massachusetts
and other partner states, Canadian Wildlife Service; analyze data,
write reports and publish research results in refereed journals with
advisor and other investigators. Fieldwork involves long, hot
days, early mornings, and late nights. Incumbent will live at
a field site for 4-5 months each year and may live in remote
National Park Service housing during that time. This study
will be conducted at Cape Cod National Seashore (http://www.nps.gov/caco/index.htm)
. This will be an excellent project for someone wishing to
make a research contribution to basic science and, simultaneously,
to the design of avian conservation strategies. Start date for
student is negotiable for Fall semester 2013 or Spring semester
2014, although Fall 2013 is preferred. Field work starts
Summer 2014.
Qualifications: B.S. in Wildlife Science, Ecology,
Conservation Biology or closely allied field, with excellent grades,
GRE scores and references. Ability to get along with cooperators and
also with beachgoers, not all of whom love shorebirds and terns.
Previous field experience required, preferably with birds.
Experience with band reading, bird capture and handling
preferred. Evidence of scientific writing skills (i.e. academic
papers, publications, etc.) and a commitment to scientific
publication. Coursework or experience with population and/or
behavioral ecology desired. Willingness to work long hours in the
hot sun in remote conditions.
To apply: If you plan to apply, send a brief email immediately
to Shannon Ritter (sjritter@vt.edu)
to let us know you plan to do so. To apply, email C.V., 1 page
letter of application, degree titles, GPA for all degrees, GRE
scores and percentiles, scanned unofficial transcripts, and names
and contact information for 3 references, including at least one
field supervisor and two academic references. Finalists will
be asked to participate in a phone interview and then to apply to
the Virginia Tech graduate school. Send information to Shannon
Ritter (sjritter@vt.edu).
Candidate selection will begin immediately and will continue until
position is filled. We recommend applying as quickly as
possible.
We seek a PhD student with interests in forest ecology, forest
management, and ecosystem science to help conduct a research project
on forest management. The goal of the project is to evaluate how the
collection of woody residues to generate bioenergy following
commercial harvests and pre-commercial thinning will affect forest
carbon sequestration and greenhouse gases emissions relative to
"business as usual" management. The PhD student would be responsible
for estimating effects of management activities on pools of carbon
and nitrogen in the soil, roots, trees, and woody debris. This would
include supervising undergraduate students to conduct field sampling
and sample processing. This is one of several new forest bioenergy
research projects at the University of Idaho, so the PhD student
will have the opportunity to engage with a cohort of graduate
students with similar research.
Candidates should have experience conducting fieldwork in forests or
similar settings, and demonstrated organizational and analytical
skills. Funding has been granted for a three-year research
assistantship, including tuition and a competitive stipend.
Applicants should send 1) a letter of interest and qualifications,
2) a resume that includes contact information for three references,
3) GRE scores, and 4) transcripts to Mark Coleman (mcoleman@uidaho.edu) and/or
Alan Talhelm (atalhelm@uidaho.edu).
We anticipate the student would officially apply to enroll for
the winter semester, starting January 2014. However, the project is
on-going and funds are available for the student to begin work
immediately. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and
review will continue until a suitable candidate is selected.
Posted 6/11/13 PhD and MS Assistantships - University
of Idaho
The following PhD and MS Assistantships are available in the Forest
Operations Research Lab at the University of Idaho:
1) PhD Assistantship in forest operations modeling
This project involves developing a new geospatial forest operations
and mobility model based on first principles of physical mechanics.
The model will be linked with a forest growth and yield model (FVS)
and hydrologic model (FASST), in order to simulate below-canopy
terramechanic relationships among forest microclimate, equipment,
and soil physical properties, and their coupled effects on the
intra-annual timing and suitability of different operational systems
used in forestry. The model will be validated in a designed
experiment with operational data collected in 24 active logging
operations in the northwestern U.S., across a range of slopes, stand
characteristics, and seasons. Model predictions will be compared
with those from a commonly used forest operations model developed
under a narrower range of conditions.
In the second phase of the research, we will deploy the new model,
coupled with the FVS Fire and Fuels Extension, to simulate and
evaluate long term interactions among silvicultural systems, forest
operations, and below-canopy forest microclimate. Multi-objective
forest management planning solutions based on the outcomes of
spatial planning that optimizes sustainable forest management
objectives and constraints related to silvicultural and operational
systems, stand structural characteristics, spatiotemporal patterns
among actively managed stands and natural areas, wildland fire, and
hydrology will be evaluated under different climate scenarios.
Within that framework, the student is encouraged to develop original
research questions and hypotheses based on his or her
interests. Contact Dr. Robert Keefe (robk@uidaho.edu) if interested.
2) MS Assistantship: modeling effectiveness and longevity of fuel
treatments in dry mixed conifer forests
The Research Assistant will develop a new version of the Fuels
Reduction Cost Simulator model in R. A supporting field study will
be carried out to characterize emerging fuel treatment and biomass
utilization systems for forestry, and the simulation model will be
adapted to incorporate these systems. The model will be integrated
into the BioSum suite of programs and used to evaluate the
effectiveness and longevity of fuel reduction treatments in dry
mixed conifer forests in the western United States at the landscape
scale, using data from the Forest Inventory and Analysis program.
The Research Assistant will be advised by Dr. Robert Keefe at the
University of Idaho, and will work with collaborators at the Pacific
Northwest Research Station (Dr. Jeremy Fried) and Rocky Mountain
Research Station Moscow Forest Sciences Lab (Dr. Terrie Jain). Prior
experience with R or another programming language is helpful, but
not required. Contact Dr. Robert Keefe (robk@uidaho.edu) if interested.
To apply:
Please complete a graduate application to the University of Idaho,
available here: http://www.uidaho.edu/graduateadmissions.
Applications should include a letter of interest, CV, transcripts,
GRE scores, and the names of three references.
Robert F. Keefe
Assistant Professor of Forest Operations
Forest, Rangeland, and Fire Sciences
University of Idaho
875 Perimeter Drive MS 1133
Moscow ID 83844-1133
Posted 6/8/13Graduate (Msc and PhD) position in Soil
Science/ Biogeochemistry
The Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta,
Edmonton, Canada is looking to fill a graduate (Msc or PhD) position
in soil science biogeochemistry starting September 1, 2013. This
research focuses on evaluating carbon pools and dynamics in
reconstructed soils (Technosols) in comparison to their natural
analogs. Fieldwork will involve soil description and sampling of
natural boreal forests and reclaimed sites. Laboratory work will
quantify the distribution and activity of soil carbon, and
associated faunal and microbial communities.
We are looking for a motivated and team-oriented candidate.
Applicants should have a strong record of academic excellence, with
demonstrated interest in soil science and biogeochemistry. Prior
experience using stable isotopes would be beneficial. Proficiency in
spoken and written English is a necessity. The successful applicant
will be supervised by Sylvie Quideau (Professor; Soil
Biogeochemistry; http://www.ualberta.ca/~squideau/),
and Mathew Swallow (Postdoctoral Fellow). Stipend will range between
CAN$19,500 - 23,500 per year for a period of 2 years; extensions are
possible, but will depend on student performance.
Applications received by July 1, 2013 will be given
preference, but the position will remain open until a successful
candidate has been identified. To apply, please send your CV, a copy
of your transcripts, the name of three references, your TOEFL score
(if applicable), and a brief cover letter outlining your research
interests to: Sylvie Quideau (Sylvie.quideau@ualberta.ca)
and Mathew Swallow (swallow@ualberta.ca).
Posted 6/8/13 M.Sc. position: Mathematical modelling
-- aquatic parasite dynamics, Memorial University of Newfoundland
I invite applicants for an M.Sc. studentship involving the
mathematical modelling of an aquatic parasite. The research will
involve describing the effect of temperature and salinity on
developmental rates, determining how temporal trends in temperature
and salinity affect population dynamics, and validating the
mathematical model with data. A competitive salary will be offered
and funding will be available for conference travel and to pursue
collaborations. Applicants should email Dr. Amy Hurford (ahurford@mun.ca). This email
should include a description of your research interests, any
relevant past experience and you should attach your CV. I will
consider applications as they are received. For full consideration
applicants should indicate their interest before July 1, 2013.
Applicants should be able to begin their studies between August 1,
2013 and January 1, 2014.
Interdisciplinary training in biology, mathematics and/or experience
in computer programming is ideal, but only proficiency in one of
these areas is necessary where there is an interest to develop
further skills in other areas.
Memorial University is located in St John's, Newfoundland, Canada.
The city offers many unique experiences with a vibrant arts
community, stunning coastline, and proximity to a variety of outdoor
activities (hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing, etc: http://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com).
Posted 6/6/13 University of Wisconsin-Madison will be
hosting their Biosciences Opportunities Preview (BOPS) Weekend
The University of Wisconsin-Madison will be hosting their
Biosciences Opportunities Preview (BOPS) Weekend on September 26-29,
2013. This is a great opportunity for prospective students to learn
about opportunities in biological science graduate programs at
UW-Madison. For more information please visit the program website
at: http://www.biopreview.wisc.edu/
The application to apply is now available and we strongly encourage
interested applicants to apply now as the application will close on
August 2, 2013. If anyone has questions about the BOPs
program, please have them contact the program at: biopreview@mailplus.wisc.edu
or 608-262-4932.
Posted 6/6/13 M.S. or Ph.D. Research Assistantship in
Aquatic Ecology, University of South Dakota
A two-year Graduate Research Assistantship in aquatic ecology is
available in the lab of Dr. Jeff Wesner, Department of Biology,
University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD. The project will address
the effects of fish diversity loss on aquatic and riparian
ecosystems, and will include field surveys and mesocosm experiments.
Available resources include a new, >22,000 square foot outdoor
aquatic mesocosm facility, and access to the nearby Missouri River
and other field sites. Two years of 12-month RA support are
available, which could fund a full M.S. or partial Ph.D. with
9-month teaching assistantships available for the remainder.
Interested students should email a C.V., writing sample (on any
topic, science or otherwise), short email explaining interest in the
position, and contact information for three references to Dr. Jeff
Wesner, jeffwesner@gmail.com.
Posted 6/1/13 MSc position in forest restoration,
University of Alberta
We are looking for an outstanding student to fill a MSc position
investigating the role of early successional tree species for
reclamation of surface mined areas in the boreal mixedwood forest
region of Alberta, Canada. The overall aim of the research is to
understand underlying forest ecosystem processes, to develop
reclamation techniques, and to determine stand trajectories to
successfully regenerate mined lands to self-sustaining forests by
restoring ecosystem functions and processes that are essential for
the development of resilient forests. The focus of this MSc project
will be to understand how reclamation materials and different tree
species influence the development of ectomycorrhizal fungal
communities. This project is based in the field; however laboratory
work will be required to identify ectomycorrhizal fungi.
The successful candidate will be under the supervision of Simon
Landhäusser, Industrial Research Chair in Forest Land Reclamation,
Alberta School of Forest Science and Management, and Justine Karst,
Research Associate in the Department of Renewable Resources.
Depending on the interest and quality of the applicants, the project
offers considerable flexibility in designing a research program that
investigates areas of personal interest within the overall framework
of the project. Information on graduate studies in the Department of
Renewable Resources can be found here: http://www.rr.ualberta.ca/en/GraduateProgram.aspx
Background in plant biology, forest ecology, mycorrhizal ecology or
related field is essential, as is an interest in the linkages
between forests and disturbance. Experience with any of the
following will be an asset, but is not required: soil science,
ecophysiology, molecular tools, fungal biology and silviculture.
Proficiency in spoken and written English is a necessity. Selection
of a student will be based on academic achievements, reference
letters and if applicable previous research experience. Strong
verbal, written, and analytical skills are essential.
Application deadline: July 1, 2013 or until the position is
filled. Appointment would commence in September 2013. The student
stipend will range between CAN$ 19,500 - 23,500 per year for a
period of 2 years; extensions are possible, but will depend on
student performance. The applicants must meet the entrance
requirement for the University of Alberta, Department of Renewable
Resources, which can be viewed at: http://www.gradstudies.ualberta.ca/applyadmission.aspx
Interested candidates should e-mail their transcripts, curriculum
vitae, a letter describing their research experience and interests
(2 page limit), recent TOEFL scores (if appropriate), and the names
and contact information of three references to Justine Karst, justine@karst.ca
Posted 5/31/13 PhD Research Assistantship --
Salmonid Habitat Ecology in Alaska
Seeking to fill a PhD research assistantship that aims to understand
landcover effects on juvenile salmon freshwater habitat and/or food
web dynamics in the face of climate and landscape change.The project
is a highly collaborative, team-based, research effort with
university, agency, and NGO partners.Strong academic training and
field experience in aquatic biology/ecology and/or fish ecology, GIS
experience, basic understanding and interest in modeling, excellent
communication and interpersonal skills, field experience and
competence, and ability to work in team and individual settings are
essential. Excellent writing and oral communication skills are also
a must. Successful candidate will be required to successfully
complete training in boat operation, gun/bear safety, and wilderness
first aid and CPR.Project is based out of the University of Alaska
Fairbanks, and fieldwork will involve traveling to moderately remote
field sites in southcentral Alaska during the field seasons
(May-Sept). Position is funded for 4 years starting at
$23/hr.Student has the option of obtaining their degree in either
Fisheries or Biology.
Send /via email/ a cover letter, resume, transcripts, GRE scores,
and contact information of three references to: mwipfli@alaska.edu
Dr. Mark Wipfli
USGS Alaska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
Institute of Arctic Biology
University of Alaska Fairbanks http://www.iab.uaf.edu/%7Emark_wipfli/
To learn more about graduate studies at the University of Alaska
Fairbanks, visit www.uaf.edu/gradsch.Position will remain open until
filled, but the intent is to start fieldwork in June.
Posted 5/29/13 PhD position: climate-related tree
dieback
Two PhD positions are available in the Department of Renewable
Resources at the University of Alberta to study Climate-related tree
dieback in western Canada.
In North America, Europe and elsewhere, many forests may be at
increasing risk of climate-related dieback. Climate change-related
forest dieback is an emerging topic with global significance. Two
PhD students will study potential causes of climate-induced tree
mortality, using forests in western Canada as a model system. The
project aims at studying how drought episodes promote dieback via
changes in xylem (the water-conducting pipes of a tree) structure
and function. Most of the research will be done in the laboratory,
but the project will also involve some limited field work. There
will be collaboration with a research group in Germany, which
studies this topic in European forests. Students will spend several
months with the collaborating team in Munich as part of the program.
Students will work under the supervision of Drs. Uwe Hacke and Vic
Lieffers (position #1) and Dr. Hacke (position #2). Candidates
interested in plant physiology, ecology, forestry and/or climate
change are encouraged to apply. Selection of students will be based
on academic achievements, reference letters and if applicable
previous research experience. Strong verbal, written, and analytical
skills are essential. Excellent English skills are important. The
applicant must meet the entrance requirement for the University of
Alberta, Department of Renewable Resources (http://www.rr.ualberta.ca/GraduateProgram/ApplyingandAdmission.aspx).
Interested candidates should e-mail their transcripts (scanned would
be fine for the unofficial application), CV, a letter describing
their research experience and interests (2-page limit), recent TOEFL
scores (if appropriate), and the names and contact information of
three references to Dr. Uwe Hacke (uwe.hacke@ualberta.ca)
and/or Dr. Vic Lieffers (vic.lieffers@ualberta.ca).
Posted 5/28/13 M.S. Assistantship in Forest Entomology
at the University of Georgia
The Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the
University of Georgia, Athens invites applications from highly
motivated and enthusiastic students for a M.S. Assistantship
starting in Fall 2013/Spring 2014. This collaborative work
will focus on a newly documented scale insect species (Matsucoccus
macrocicatrices) from southeastern U.S., its interaction with
associated fungal species, and its contribution to canker formation
and dieback/mortality of eastern white pine. Our major objectives
are to: determine the range and severity of dieback, and fate of
symptomatic white pine trees in the southern Appalachians; assess if
white pine health varies as based on site conditions; and determine
correlations between the scale insect, fungal pathogens, cankers,
and health of eastern white pine. This work will be conducted in
close collaboration with the USDA Forest Service, Virginia
Department of Forestry, and other cooperators.
The Forest Entomology laboratory (http://www.kamal.gandhi.uga.edu/)
at University of Georgia is a dynamic group that works on a broad
range of forest health issues, insect species, and ecosystem-types.
We invite applications from highly self-motivated and
enthusiastic students that are genuinely interested in working at
the forefront of forest health issues. Training in forest entomology
will be provided. Prior experience in forestry, entomology,
and ecology will be an asset. A competitive M.S. assistantship
for two-years along with full tuition waiver will be provided.
Interested students should submit a letter of interest, current CV
along with contact information for 2-3 referees, and unofficial
transcripts to Dr. Kamal JK Gandhi (kjgandhi@uga.edu;
706-542-4614).
The Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources (http://www.warnell.uga.edu/)
is the oldest forestry school in the south, has >75 faculty
working in diverse fields, and provides exemplary training of
students in the fields of forestry, ecology, and conservation
biology. The School is housed in a four-building complex on campus,
and has >23,000 acres in the state for research, teaching, and
service activities. The University of Georgia
(http://www.uga.edu/) is a "land-grant and sea-grant university, and
is also the state's oldest, most comprehensive and most diversified
institution of higher education". Its motto is: "to teach, to serve
and to inquire into the nature of things". The University of
Georgia is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer.
Posted 5/27/13 PhD-student Position in Microbial
Ecology/ Gut microbiome, health and diet
Advisor: Dr Franck Carbonero, Assistant Professor
Department of Food Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville,
USA
PhD student studentships are available in my new lab to work on
Microbial Ecology/ Gut microbiome, health and diet
Non-exhaustive list of projects:
Complementary metagenomic and microbiome analyses of samples derived
from human nutrition exchange trials in Africa and the US.
Cultivation of representative communities from different intestinal
samples. In vitro characterization of the effect of selected dietary
elements. Simultaneous microbiome and host trancriptomics analyses
from biopsies sample from digestive diseases patients (Colon cancer,
inflammatory bowel disease)
Required qualifications.
Applicants should hold an MSc (Bsc will be considered for US or UK
candidates) degree in gut microbiology, microbial ecology,
bioinformatics or related fields and have a practical background in
molecular and cultivation techniques. Experience in one or more of
the following areas/techniques will be of advantage: profiling of
microbial communities (fingerprinting, clone library analyses,
next-generation sequencing analysis), qPCR, annotation of
(meta-)genomes, anaerobic microbiology, nutrition. Proficiency in
spoken and written English is mandatory.
Mode of application.
To apply, please send an email (subject: PhD Gut microbiome and
diet) to Dr. Franck Carbonero, carbonef@illinois.edu
containing a pdf-file with a detailed CV, a motivation letter, and
contact details of at least two references.
Start date is flexible from Fall 2013.
Franck Carbonero, PhD
Postdoctoral Research Associate
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Department of Animal Sciences
Posted 5/24/13 Teaching Assistantship with Research
Commitment (Wildlife Ecology) in South Texas
We are inviting applications for a graduate position (MSc) that
includes 8-9 hours/week as assistant instructor in undergraduate
biology laboratory classes. The appointment is to begin Fall 2013 in
the Biological Sciences Department at the University of
Texas-Brownsville.
This position additionally includes a research component
investigating the ecology and conservation of wildlife species in
south Texas thornscrub and coastal communities. The Graduate
Assistant will be expected to develop a research project examining
the population dynamics and movements of wildlife species in
response to management practices and habitat manipulations. Areas of
potential research include population and individual responses to
prescribed burns, supplemental feed and water, and land-use
practices.
Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology or a
related field. Successful candidates must demonstrate an aptitude
for research and ability to work independently. Prior experience in
vertebrate and/or wildlife ecology is preferred, as is the ability
to conduct fieldwork occasionally under hot weather conditions. A
current, valid U.S. driver's license and good driving record is also
preferred. The successful applicant will be expected to enroll full
time in either the UTB Biology or Interdisciplinary Sciences Masters
program (emphasis in Biology) pursuing the thesis option. The
available teaching assistantship has $1100 per month, is benefits
eligible, and includes a waiver for in-state-tuition for
out-of-state students.
Interested applicants should send to Dr. Kenneth Pruitt (kenneth.pruitt@utb.edu) a
copy of their CV or resume, GPA and GRE scores, a written statement
of graduate research interests, and contact information for two
references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will
continue until the position is filled.
Posted 5/23/13 MS graduate assistantship: bird
migration study (Virginia/Maryland)
Graduate student opportunity in conservation biology at Old Dominion
University
I am seeking a highly motivated M.S. student to join my lab in the
Department of Biological Sciences at Old Dominion University,
starting fall 2013. This student will work as part of a new
collaborative radar project examining migrant use of hardwood forest
habitat during fall migration in Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware.
Applicants must be highly motivated, have field experience that
involves the ability to identify Eastern passerine migrants by sight
and sound, have leadership abilities in order to coordinate several
independent field crews, possess strong quantitative skills, and
have competitive GPA/GRE scores. The ability to begin field work in
August 2013 is required. Students with strong initiative and a
desire to carve out their own research questions within this project
are highly encouraged to apply.
If you are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in my lab on
this project, please send me the following: a current CV; GRE and
GPA scores; a statement of your research interests, career goals,
and why you would like to pursue a graduate degree with me; and the
names, phone numbers, titles, and email addresses of at least three
academic / professional references. Applications will be reviewed
upon receipt. Please see my website (www.ericlwalters.org) for
more information about my lab and the ODU Biology Graduate Program
website (http://ww2.sci.odu.edu/biology/academics/bio-ms.shtml)
for more details on application procedures.
I am looking for 2 students to begin PhD research with myself,
Michael Sheriff, at Penn State University. These positions are fully
funded for the first three years, including tuition and summer
salaries. The starting date is flexible but preference will be for a
starting date this fall (Aug/Sept) or January 2014.
The research focus of my lab addresses one of the fundamental
questions in biology: what limits and regulates animals in their
natural world? Our approach is to bridge physiology, behavior,
and ecology to understand how animals interact with the world around
them. As such, we are broadly interested in the underlying
physiological mechanisms by which ecological interactions
(predation, competition, climate, etc.) alter behavior and cause
changes in reproduction, survival, and ultimately population
demography and community structure. Projects in our research group
are centered on two major themes:
1) How ecological stressors drive changes in free-living animals'
physiology and behavior, how this impacts reproduction and survival
and how this drives changes in population dynamics and ultimately
community structure.
a) Particular focus
has been on climate change, predation, food availability and
habitat.
b) Areas of
physiology focus mostly on stress hormones (glucocorticoids) and sex
hormones (testosterone, DHEA) and metabolic rate; behaviors focus
mainly on phenology (timing of annually recurring events) and
anti-predator and foraging behaviors.
2) How maternal stress may impact offspring physiology, behavior and
fitness.
If you are interested in joining our research group please contact
me via email at mjsheriff@alaska.edu
I place a premium on analytical skills, writing ability, research
experience, hard work, and enthusiasm. If and when you decide to
contact me, please take some time and write a thoughtful letter
(because this is more likely to generate a thoughtful response).
Please send me your CV, GRE test scores (Canadian students don't
need to send this), and transcripts. Tell me a bit about your
interests, and why you're interested in working with our group.
Posted 5/21/13 PhD and MS assistantships, Aquatic
Ecology, Purdue University
PhD and MS Assistantships: Aquatic Ecology
Purdue University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources
West Lafayette, IN, USA
Description:
Graduate student (PhD and MS) assistantships are available to
conduct research in aquatic ecology in the Hoverman Lab (http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~jhoverm/).
Research projects will focus on pond communities and explore
the effects of natural and anthropogenic stressors on individuals,
species interactions, and community structure and function.
These projects will combine laboratory and mesocosm
experiments with broad-scale field surveys.
General research topics include:
1) Ecological and evolutionary importance of
inducible defenses in prey
2) Ecology of emerging infectious diseases
3) Direct and indirect effects of anthropogenic
chemicals on communities
Selected individuals will enroll in Purdue University's Department
of Forestry and Natural Resources (www.ag.purdue.edu/fnr) in
West Lafayette, IN.
Qualifications:
Minimum qualifications include a BS (for MS position) or MS (for PhD
position) in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife, or related field; GPA of
3.2 or greater; and above average GRE scores (at least 50th
percentile for quantitative and verbal; at least 4.0 for analytical
writing).
Salary:
Assistantships include 12-month stipend, full tuition coverage, and
insurance.
Start date:
Exact start date is negotiable (can start sometime from August
2013-January 2014).
How to Apply:
The positions will remain open until filled. For full consideration,
please respond by July 1, 2013 and submit CV, GRE scores
(unofficial is fine), transcript (unofficial is fine), names and
contact information for three references, and cover letter detailing
research interests, related experience, and career goals to Dr.
Jason Hoverman (jhoverm@purdue.edu).
Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative
action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce.
Posted 5/6/13 MS Research Assistantship
Research Assistantship
M.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Science
Mississippi State University
Project Title: Habitat suitability assessment of eastern wild
turkeys in Mississippi
Project Description: One M.S. Research Assistantship is available
within the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture at
Mississippi State University. Thesis research project is aimed
to: 1) assess statewide habitat suitability of wild turkeys using
existing presence data and brood survey data; and 2) examine
differentiation of population genetic structure of wild turkeys in
Mississippi using mitochondrial DNA analysis. The student will
collect tissue samples from hunter-harvested wild turkeys at
wildlife management areas and some private hunting clubs across
state. The research project involves spatial modeling of
habitat suitability and laboratory work on mitochondrial DNA
analysis and statistical analysis. The student will also
conduct field surveys for validation of habitat suitability
models.
Qualifications: B.S. degree in wildlife sciences or a related
field. Extensive in-state travel is required. Desirable
qualifications include excellent written and oral communication
skills and good organizational skills. A minimum 3.0 GPA and
having taken the GRE is desired. Coursework in GIS or
spatial analysis would be beneficial.
Location: Starkville, Mississippi
Starting Date: 10 January, 2014
Stipend: $16,500 per year plus tuition and health benefits
Closing Date: 10 January 2014 or until position is filled
Application: Apply via electronic application within the Office of
Graduate Studies, Mississippi State University. Also create a
single PDF document containing the following: 1) cover letter
describing credentials and professional goals; 2) a resume; 3) three
references; and 4) a copy of university transcripts and GRE/TOEFL
scores. Please email this file to Dr. Guiming Wang (gwang@cfr.msstate.edu)
with "Wild turkey Assistantship" in the subject line.
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