Graduate School Opportunities
Graduate School Opportunities 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:
Email
PhD
or MS Assistantship - Fire-adapted Tree Traits
PhD or MS Assistantship, University of Montana, Forestry and
Conservation Sciences
Applications are being sought for a graduate assistantship to
investigate the role of fire- and drought-resistance traits in
mediating post-fire tree mortality. The graduate student will
conduct field research and analyze new data as well as a large
existing database to elucidate how fire injury, drought stress,
tree characteristics, and other factors contribute to the
likelihood and timing of tree mortality. The research will improve
our fundamental understanding of tree mortality and the results
will be integrated into decision support systems used by land
managers. The student will work with an established team of
federal and academic researchers with ample opportunities for
networking and professional development beyond their academic
program.
Responsibilities include data collection, management, and
analysis; project management; publication of results in refereed
journals; management outreach and science communication;
collaboration with university researchers, federal scientists, and
land managers; communicating results through presentations,
webinars, and other formats; and service as a teaching assistant.
Applicants may apply to either the MS or PhD degree track. Two
years of support are available at the MS level and three years of
support are available at the PhD level. Academic year support will
be split between Research and Teaching Assistant appointments and
includes salary, tuition, and mandatory fees. Travel funds are
available for fieldwork and a scientific conference presentation.
Paid field work for the project is scheduled for May-July 2025.
Academic start dates are flexible, with potential start dates of
August 2024, January 2025, or August 2025.
Required Qualifications:
All the requirements for admission to the relevant degree program.
Coursework in botany, plant physiology, dendrology,
dendrochronology, forest ecology, or fire ecology.
Experience managing and visualizing ecological data.
Ability to work independently and to manage multiple
responsibilities and deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications:
Ability to implement applied statistical analyses in R.
A record of publication in the peer-reviewed literature.
Field or laboratory experience in botany, plant physiology,
dendrochronology, forest ecology, or fire ecology.
MS degree in a related field.
To apply: Send a single file containing application materials to
Dr. Alina Cansler at alina.cansler@umontana.edu
with a subject line of Fire-adapted Tree Traits Assistantship.
The file should contain a cover letter describing interest in an
MS or PhD program and an explanation of your qualifications,
current CV, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for
three professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a
rolling basis beginning on April 8, 2024. Members of
historically underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
About UM and Missoula. The University of Montana is in aboriginal
territories of the Salish and Kalispel people, and draws a diverse
population of students, faculty, staff, and researchers. The UM
W.A. Franke College of Forestry & Conservation is located in
Missoula, Montanas second-largest city with a population of
80,000 residents. Missoula offers a high quality of life, with
multiple rivers, trails, and wilderness areas within minutes of
campus, outstanding amenities for families, a vibrant arts
community, and regular performances by national musical acts.
Missoula and the surrounding area host an impactful land
management and conservation community, including major federal
research labs, state, federal, and tribal land management
agencies, and significant conservation and environmental NGOs.
Dr. C. Alina Cansler
she/her/hers
Assistant Professor
Department of Forest Management
W.A. Franke College of Forestry & Conservation
University of Montana
Missoula, MT 59812, USA
Email: alina.cansler@umontana.edu
Posted 3/28/24
M.S.
Assistantship: Assessment of rare bumble bee conservation in
Texas using eDNA
The Mitchell Lab in the Department of Wildlife and Natural
Resources at Tarleton State University is seeking a highly
motivated student seeking a M.S. in Agriculture and Natural
Resources to assess the efficacy of environmental DNA monitoring
techniques in detecting the presence, abundance, and host plant
use of variable cuckoo bumble bee (Bombus variabilis) and
American bumble bee (Bombus pensylvanicus) across their
range in the state of Texas. This project is funded by the Texas
Comptroller of Public Accounts to address knowledge gaps and
improve conservation efforts in determining if listing of either
species if warranted at the state level. The student will be
expected to conduct field work including conventional pollinator
and vegetation sampling techniques as well as collection of floral
resources for DNA extraction. The student will also conduct
labwork developing species-specific primers and metabarcoding, as
well as spatial habitat suitability models to determine areas at
greatest risk of decline or conservation need. The student will
also help contribute to Tarleton State University’s Insect
Collection (TIC).
Qualifications: B.S. in Biology, Entomology, Natural Resources,
Plant Science, Wildlife Biology, or related fields with a GPA of
at least 3.0 required. Students must be self-motivated, able to
work independently in adverse field conditions (esp. hot weather
and stinging insects) and in remote areas. Students must have a
valid driver’s license. Experience with plant and insect
identification and molecular techniques preferred but not
required.
Salary and Benefits: Students will receive a monthly salary of
$1600 for a 2 year commitment, including health benefits as an
employee of Tarleton State University and the Texas A&M
University System. Out-of-state tuition costs are waived; students
are responsible for costs of in-state tuition and fees and are
encouraged to apply for scholarships through the university to
compensate for tuition costs. Students will receive assistance
through the hire of field technicians, compensation for travel and
lab costs, and funding to present research at a professional
conference of their choice.
Application: To apply, please email the following materials as a
single PDF file to Dr. Adam Mitchell (abmitchell@tarlteon.edu)
1) A single-page cover letter describing professional goals, 2) a
resume or CV, 3) copy of academic transcript (official or
unofficial), and 4) contact information for three references.
Please include the subject line YOURNAME_BOMBUS in your email.
The deadline to apply is April 15th with a quick
turn-around for interview. For questions, contact Dr. Mitchell by
email.
Adam Mitchell, Ph.D (He/Him/His)
Certified Wildlife Biologist ®
Assistant Professor of Entomology
Department of Wildlife and Natural Resources
Tarleton State University
Office: Autry 203B
Phone: (254)-459-5334
Posted 3/27/24
PhD
Position in Arctic Plant Traits and Vegetation Dynamics at the
University of Illinois
A PhD position is available in the lab of Dr. Jennifer Fraterrigo
in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences
at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) starting in
August 2024. The project will focus on plant trait distributions
in areas of thawing and degrading permafrost across northern
Alaska and is part part of a larger, collaborative effort to
determine the micro-scale mechanisms driving hot-spot and
hot-moment carbon dynamics for improving predictions of
macro-scale carbon balance in the Arctic. The position involves
field work in northern Alaska, lab work and lab experiments for
evaluating changes in leaf and root traits, and empirical
modeling. The student will also have the opportunity to work
closely with other scientists to detect plant traits with remote
sensing, investigate how plant-soil-microbe interactions influence
ecosystem and biogeochemical responses to abrupt permafrost
degradation across time and space, characterize fine-scale
heterogeneity in the environmental factors that govern carbon
dynamics, and simulate vegetation dynamics in models.
Qualifications
Applicants should have a B.S. or M.S. in ecology, biology,
environmental science or a closely related field and previous
research experience, ideally in ecology. Applicants should be able
to work independently, but also cooperatively with other
researchers. Applicants should also have a strong work ethic,
excellent communication skills, ability to problem solve,
demonstrated writing and quantitative capabilities, and a record
of leadership. Preference will be given to applicants who have
experience with vegetation sampling, characterizing plant traits,
or working in tundra ecosystems. The position will be supported
through a combination of research and teaching assistantships
(including stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance).
If interested, please send a "pre-application" as a single pdf
document to Dr. Jennifer Fraterrigo (jmf@illinois.edu) including:
a short letter explaining your background and interests, a CV or
résumé, and contact information for least 3 references. Please
enter "RA application [your surname]" in the subject field of the
e-mail. I will review these upon receipt. In order to minimize
expense and hassles for applicants, I will respond to
pre-applications to encourage/discourage full a NRES Graduate
Program application.
Our lab strives to maintain an inclusive and supportive
environment and welcomes all applicants regardless of race,
religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical
ability, veteran status, or socio-economic status.
Posted 3/26/24
M.S.
Graduate Research Assistantship for Osprey Conservation and
Ecology, University of Illinois Springfield
An MS-level Graduate Research Assistantship is available for
participating in research and conservation of osprey, currently a
state-threatened species, in Illinois. The Graduate Research
Assistantship will be for two years with a 16 August 2024 start
date. The assistantship will provide tuition waiver, stipends for
the spring and fall semesters, summer income as a field
technician, and research support. The selected student will assist
with an osprey re-establishment project in central Illinois that
involves field work, with a MS thesis project addressing either
population viability analysis for recovery or osprey migration
strategies and movement ecology.
The successful candidate must have the following qualifications:
1. Background in ecology and conservation.
2. Strong writing skills and quantitative skills.
3. Coursework and extensive use of GIS and statistics.
4. High academic performance.
5. Experience or interest working with raptors.
6. Endurance for long field season.
7. Strong work ethic and keen attention to detail.
Interested applicants should send the following (via email) to Dr.
Tih-Fen Ting at tting1@uis.edu as soon as
possible, no later than 22 April 2024. Review of
applications will start immediately, until the position is filled.
1. Cover letter addressing background, extent of qualifications,
and research interest.
2. Resume including contact information for three references.
3. Transcripts (unofficial or scanned copy acceptable).
Suitable candidates will be encouraged to submit a formal
application to the Graduate Assistantships program. Please do not
hesitate to contact me at tting1@uis.edu
if you have questions.
Tih-Fen Ting, Ph.D.
Director, School of Integrated Sciences, Sustainability, and
Public Health
Acting Program Lead, Environmental Studies
College of Health, Science, and Technology
University of Illinois | Springfield
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 206-7876
tting1@uis.edu
https://www.tinglabuis.org/
Posted 3/23/24
M.S.
Graduate Research Assistantship for GIS/GeoAI and Environmental
Monitoring, University of Illinois Springfield
An MS-level Graduate Research Assistantship is available for
participating in one of the several projects utilizing GeoAI for
surveying or monitoring. The Graduate Research Assistantship will
be for two years with a 16 August 2024 start date. The
assistantship will provide tuition waiver, stipends for the spring
and fall semesters, summer income as a field technician, and
research support. The selected student will be co-advised by Dr.
Yun Zhao and Dr. Tih-Fen Ting. Potential projects include:
habitat management and restoration; monitoring of invasive
species; and wildlife conservation.
The successful candidate must have the following qualifications:
1. Background in ecology, conservation, environmental science, or
computer science.
2. Strong writing skills and quantitative skills.
3. Coursework and extensive use of GIS and statistics.
4. High academic performance.
6. Endurance for field work.
7. Strong work ethic and keen attention to detail.
Interested applicants should send the following (via email) to Dr.
Tih-Fen Ting at tting1@uis.edu as soon
as possible, no later than 22 April 2024. Review of
applications will start immediately, until the position is filled.
1. Cover letter addressing background, extent of qualifications,
and research interest.
2. Resume including contact information for three references.
3. Transcripts (unofficial or scanned copy acceptable).
Suitable candidates will be encouraged to submit a formal
application to the Graduate Assistantships program. Please do not
hesitate to contact me at tting1@uis.edu
if you have questions.
Tih-Fen Ting, Ph.D.
Director, School of Integrated Sciences, Sustainability, and
Public Health
Acting Program Lead, Environmental Studies
College of Health, Science, and Technology
University of Illinois | Springfield
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 206-7876
tting1@uis.edu
https://www.tinglabuis.org/
Posted 3/23/24
PhD
Position in Plant-Insect Interactions at Texas Christian
University
*PhD position*:
A fully funded graduate research assistantship position (funded by
teaching assistance) is available in the lab of Dr. Annika Nelson
in the Department of Biology at Texas Christian University (TCU)
starting in August 2024. The project will be centered on the
population and community ecology of plant-insect or insect-microbe
interactions. The project is designed to give the student
opportunities to learn and apply techniques from field ecology,
chemical ecology, and/or microbial ecology to answer questions
about the ecology and evolution of mutualisms involving plants and
insects. Opportunities for both field and lab work are available
and will depend on student interest. Applicants should send a CV,
a cover letter describing their research interests and reasons for
applying, and the names and contact details of THREE potential
referees to Dr. Annika Nelson (annikasn@uci.edu).
For more details on the Department of Biology at TCU and the
graduate program, please see https://cse.tcu.edu/biology/graduate-programs/index.php
For more information about the type of research that will be done
in the Nelson lab, please see https://annikanelson.weebly.com/
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=zozBz40AAAAJ&hl=en
Dr. Annika Nelson
Incoming Assistant Professor (starting August 2024)
Department of Biology
Texas Christian University
2800 S University Drive
Fort Worth, Texas 76109
940-368-9081
Qualifications
The candidate should have or be expected to have (by August 2024)
an undergraduate degree in biology or related discipline with a
minimum GPA of 3.0. Previous research experience, ideally in
ecology or a related field, is required. Interested applicants
should send a CV, a cover letter describing their research
interests and reasons for applying, and the names and contact
details of THREE potential referees to Dr. Annika Nelson (annikasn@uci.edu).
Review of applicants will begin immediately.
Posted 3/23/24
MS
student position
Masters Student position in Biology (Southeast Missouri State
University) investigating the impact of essential fatty acids
subsidies from aquatic habitat on upper trophic levels of
terrestrial food webs. This project will focus on the impacts of
essential fatty acids on immune function of upper-level consumers.
This position will be supported by a teaching assistantship and
will have a tuition waiver. Summer funding is also likely.
Please email a copy of your CV, cover letter, and unofficial
transcripts to Dr. Kelley Fritz (kfritz@semo.edu).
Review begins immediately and will continue until the position is
filled.
Dr. Kelley A Fritz
Assistant Professor
Department of Biology
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
Office: Rhodes Hall 202
Posted 3/22/24
Two
Graduate Assistantships (Ph.D.) to Study Climate Change Impacts
on Rural Communities
The Department of Earth and Spatial Sciences at the University of
Idaho (Moscow, ID) is recruiting two Geography Ph.D. students to
conduct research related to human adaptation to, and perceptions
of, climate change. The successful applicants will work with a
team of scientists from Idaho, Nevada, and South Carolina as part
of a National Science Foundation funded 4-year project focuses on
Local and Place Based Adaptation to Climate Change in Undeserved
Rural Communities. One PhD student will focus on remote sensing
and spatial analysis of environments under change and the second
will focus on climate science, modeling, and visualizations.
Please submit inquiries directly to Dr. Alistair Smith (alistair@uidaho.edu)
and Dr. Erich Seamon (erichs@uidaho.edu).
Positions include a competitive research assistantship
(~$30,000/year), health insurance, and full tuition covered, with
an anticipated start of August 12, 2024.
Posted 3/21/24
PhD
Position in Coastal Plant Ecology
The Zerebecki Coastal Plant Ecology Lab (https://zerebeckir.wixsite.com/home)
at the University of Louisiana Lafayette invites applications for
a PhD position in Evolution and Environmental Biology starting in
either Fall 2024 or Spring 2025.
Research in the lab focuses on: 1) the ecological effects of
genetic diversity within coastal and wetland foundation plant
species; 2) eco-evolutionary feedbacks in coastal marshes; and 3)
the impacts and responses of wetlands to changing environmental
conditions. We use a variety of techniques in our work, including
field surveys, field and greenhouse experiments, and molecular
analyses, to address ecological and evolutionary questions.
The desired candidate will be interested in coastal plant ecology.
They will lead the development of a dissertation project exploring
eco-evolutionary questions within coastal salt marshes in
alignment with their own interests. The student will have
opportunities to conduct experiments in the lab, greenhouse, and
field setting, working with a fun, and supportive lab group.
Candidates with experience conducting fieldwork in aquatic and
wetland ecosystems, or with standard molecular assays (e.g., DNA
extractions, and PCR), possessing strong quantitative and writing
skills, ability to work collaboratively and independently and with
a passion for ecology are particularly encouraged to apply.
A BS (and preferably a MS) in the field of ecology, ecology &
evolution, botany, marine biology, environmental science, biology
or other related field of study is required.
The graduate student will be supported with a teaching and/or
research assistantship consisting of a $22,000 USD per academic
year (10-month) stipend and a tuition waiver. Note this minimum
stipend is a starting point: additional top-up is possible
contingent on scholarships and additional funds in the lab.
Interested candidates, please email (1) a statement of interest
describing what area(s) of research you are most interested in
exploring and any previous experience and skills related to those
interests; (2) CV/resume and 3) contact information for 2
professional references to Dr. Robyn Zerebecki (robyn.zerebecki@louisiana.edu).
I will contact candidates for further discussion and at which time
a formal application process will be discussed. Review of
applications will begin April 1st, 2024, and the position
will remain open until filled. Individuals from historically
underrepresented groups in STEM are encouraged to apply.
Posted 3/19/24
MS
Assistantship studying Cattle-carnivore conflict prevention -
Colorado State University
Project Focus: Cattle-carnivore conflict prevention
Location: Fort Collins, Colorado (majority time) and San Mateo
County, California (field)
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: $26,000/year
Project Description:
The Yovovich Lab in the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and
Conservation Biology at Colorado State University is seeking
motivated applicants for a master’s project focusing on
livestock-carnivore conflict and livestock predation deterrents.
This position will be a part of the Bay Area Carnivore-Livestock
Interactions Project (BACLIP), a joint collaboration among CSU,
Panthera, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, UC
Cooperative Extension, and others. The overall project goal is to
better understand how to prevent conflict between cattle and pumas
and coyotes in rangeland settings. There are many components to
this ongoing larger research and extension effort, and the
incumbent student’s master’s thesis will focus on one or two
components, which could include analyzing the efficacy of
livestock protection tools (e.g., FoxLights and turbo-fladry)
and/or whether these tools influence cattle behavior. The
successful applicant will design their thesis to achieve the
following project objectives:
Build a positive and highly collaborative lab environment at CSU.
Measure how coyotes and pumas respond to livestock protection
tools (e.g., FoxLights and turbo-fladry)
Measure whether predation deterrents influence cattle behavior on
rangeland sites
Generate publications, management recommendations for cattle
producers in California’s Central Coast, and extension materials
based on the research findings
This is a highly collaborative project, and the student will spend
considerable time working with project partners within and
external to CSU, including local ranchers. The student will also
need to have strong self-motivation and be very comfortable and
confident working independently. The incumbent will take classes
at CSU in Fort Collins, and will spend summers and other
non-coursework time conducting fieldwork in San Mateo County,
California.
Qualifications:
Candidates from underrepresented groups in STEM are strongly
encouraged to apply. Applicants must possess an B.A./B.S. in
wildlife biology, ecology, environmental studies, or a related
field. Applicants should be highly motivated with a strong
interest in collaboration and establishing a positive team
environment in the lab and with collaborators, strong work ethic,
experience/coursework analyzing data in R, some statistical
analysis experience/coursework, well-developed oral and written
communication skills, and a can-do attitude toward the setbacks
that inevitably come with nascent research projects. Competitive
candidates will demonstrate experience conducting independent
research, and presenting research/extension. Applicants must have
the ability to work well with people who may hold differing views
from their own and have a strong ability to communicate well with
diverse project partners. Successful applicants will demonstrate
capacity to work in a team-oriented environment, to learn new
analytical skills, and experience conducting fieldwork and
problem-solving in remote settings. Applicants must also possess a
valid driver’s license.
Compensation:
Students will be supported with a research assistantship for 2.5
years and an additional semester of teaching assistantship (for 3
years of secured support for a 3-year program). The student will
apply for additional funding to supplement the project and develop
their grant-writing skills.
To apply:
Please send a single document (e.g., a Word or pdf document) that
includes: 1) a cover letter, 2) a brief writing excerpt (1-2
paragraphs from a publication, class writing assignment, etc.), 3)
a CV (including confirmation that you have a valid driver’s
license and where you encountered this posting), 4) unofficial
transcripts, and 5) contact information for three references (no
letters needed yet). The name of the document should be titled
YourName_Mastersapplication2024. This file should be sent to Dr.
Veronica Yovovich (v.yovovich@colostate.edu),
with “Fall 2024 graduate student position” in the subject line.
Start date: Fall semester, August 2024
Application due: April 18, 2024
Posted 3/19/24
Graduate
Assistantship (M.S.) to study Southern Fox Squirrels
The Herpetology and Applied Conservation Lab in the Department of
Biological Sciences at Marshall University is recruiting a
graduate student (M.S.) to conduct research on Southern Fox
Squirrel demographic monitoring as part of our long-term research
program at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC. We
use radio telemetry, remote videography, and mark-recapture data
in an adaptive framework to manage the re-established population.
The funded position requires a 2.5-3 yr commitment, with the
successful applicant starting field work in summer 2024. The
student will work under the mentorship of Dr. Shane Welch and will
spend ~8 months per year in the field (including summer and 1
semester/year). While on campus (1 semester/year; Huntington, WV),
the student will be expected to teach biology labs in Biological
Sciences as a Graduate Teaching Assistant. The student will be
expected to manage and train field technicians, as needed.
Salary and compensation: ~$18,000/year plus a tuition waiver
(excluding fees). Because the position requires use of personal
vehicle, we will compensate for mileage accrued at the study site
@ $0.55/mile. Field housing is provided approximately 30 minutes
from the study site, and the student is required to share utility
costs with housemates.
We are seeking a highly motivated student with prior field
experience (preferably mammal-focused) and an interest in
population demography. The applicant must be adaptable, tolerant
of uncomfortable field conditions (hot, high humidity, biting
insects), and work well with others (peers and technicians).
Send application materials, including unofficial transcripts,
resume (including contact information for three references), and a
1-page state of interest to Dr. Shane Welch (welchsh@marshall.edu).
We will begin reviewing applications immediately and the position
will remain open until filled.
Posted 3/19/24
M.S.
Graduate Assistantship (Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes)
The Herpetology and Applied Conservation Lab in the Department of
Biological Sciences at Marshall University (Huntington, WV) is
recruiting a graduate student (M.S.) to conduct research on
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes (EDB) at the Marine Corps Base
Camp Lejeune (Jacksonville, NC). The project was initiated in 2022
and uses an individual-based monitoring approach (radio telemetry,
remote videography, and mark-recapture) to study EDBs at their
northern range limit. The funded position requires a 2.5-3 year
commitment, with the successful applicant starting field work in
summer 2024. The student will work under the mentorship of Dr.
Jayme Waldron and will spend ~8 months per year in the field
(including summer and 1 semester/year). While on campus (1
semester/year; Huntington, WV), the student will be expected to
teach biology labs in the Department of Biological Sciences as a
Graduate Teaching Assistant. The student will be expected to
manage and train field technicians, as needed.
Salary and compensation: ~$18,000/year plus a tuition waiver
(excluding fees). Because the position requires use of personal
vehicle, we will compensate for mileage accrued at the study site
@ $0.55/mile. Field housing is provided approximately 10 minutes
from the study site.
We are seeking a highly motivated student with prior field
experience and an interest in rattlesnake ecology. Applicants must
be committed to following strict safety protocols and tolerant of
uncomfortable field conditions (hot, high humidity, biting
insects). Applicants must demonstrate maturity and have a history
of working well with others (peers and technicians).
Send application materials, including unofficial transcripts,
resume (including contact information for three references), and a
1-page state of interest to Dr. Jayme Waldron (waldron3@marshall.edu).
We will begin reviewing applications immediately and the position
will remain open until filled.
Jayme L. Waldron, Professor
Biological Sciences
Marshall University
One John Marshall Drive
Huntington, WV 25755
Office: 304-696-3361
http://science.marshall.edu/waldron3
Posted 3/19/24
M.Sc.
opportunities in the behavioral ecology of stream fish in
Iceland
Territoriality, foraging and social organisation in stream
salmonids: Repeatability and plasticity
M.Sc. opportunities in fish ecology in Iceland
The Department of Aquaculture and Fish Biology of Holar University
in northern Iceland (www.holar.is) seeks bright,
hard working individuals for two graduate positions associated
with the research project "Territoriality, foraging and social
organisation in stream salmonids: Repeatability and plasticity",
funded by the Icelandic Center for Research (RANNIS). The research
project involves a collaboration between Dr. Stefan O.
Steingrimsson, Dr. Camille Leblanc, Dr. David Benhaim at Holar
University, Dr. James W.A. Grant at Concordia University in
Montréal, Canada, and Dr. Laura K. Weir at St. Mary's University,
in Halifax, Canada. Holar University is a small university, with
an ambitious research program in fish biology, aquaculture and
aquatic ecology, with focus on evolution and ecology (www.holaraquatic.is).
In this research project we examine the patterns and temporal
stability of space use (territory size, foraging mode, social
behavior) and spatial organization in juvenile stream salmonids,
and how these behaviors change across ecological situations.
Specifically, we will conduct both observational studies and field
experiments to estimate how these space use patterns, and their
individual repeatability, vary between (i) related species (Arctic
charr, brown trout, Atlantic salmon), (ii) day and night, and
(iii) situations where prey are dispersed or clumped in space. We
will also test whether these behaviors and their repeatability,
are associated with individual growth in the wild. This study will
improve our understanding of how individual plasticity in behavior
may mediate growth and survival in response to natural and human
induced changes.
The positions are for two M.Sc. candidates. Ideally, one should
start in June 2024 and the other in September 2024. The M.Sc.
candidates will be enrolled at the Dept. of Aquaculture and Fish
Biology of Holar University. Applicants should have a B.Sc. degree
in biology or related disciplines and have a strong academic
record. Each M.Sc. candidate will receive partial funding for 2
years (244 000 ISK / 1600 EUR per month).
Applicants should contact Dr. Stefan O. Steingrimsson at Holar
University (stefan@holar.is). Applications
should include a CV, a short statement of research interest, names
and contact information for two references, and a copy of academic
transcripts. The application deadline is 5 April 2024, or
until appropriate candidates have been recruited.
Stefan O. Steingrimsson (Ph.D.), Professor
Dept. of Aquaculture and Fish Biology, Holar University, 551
Saudarkrokur, Iceland
Posted 3/14/24
PhD
Position in Microbial Ecology
The Muscarella Lab at the University of Alaska Fairbanks is
recruiting a Ph.D. student interested in studying microbial
communities in Arctic ecosystems. This is a great opportunity for
someone interested in combining field, lab, and computational
approaches.
This position is part of a large collaborative project studying
the dynamics of Arctic tundra ecosystems, from microbes to
landscapes. The graduate student will participate in remote field
campaigns, lab work (soil incubations, DNA extractions,
metagenomics, and qSIP), and bioinformatics. A strong
microbiology, microbial ecology, or ecosystem genomics background
is preferred.
The start date for this position is Fall 2024. For more
information on our graduate program and requirements:
General Info: https://www.uaf.edu/bw/graduate/index.php
PhD Program Info: https://www.uaf.edu/bw/graduate/phd-biological-sciences.php
Application Process: https://www.uaf.edu/bw/graduate/application-tips.php
Location: University of Alaska Fairbanks
Start: Fall 2024. Option available to start mid-July for fieldwork
Lab Website: MuscarellaLab.github.io
For more information: Contact Dr. Mario Muscarella
(memuscarella[at]alaska.edu) with CV and statement of interest.
Mario Muscarella
Assistant Professor of Microbiology
Institute of Arctic Biology
Department of Biology and Wildlife
University of Alaska Fairbanks
PO Box 757000
Fairbanks, AK 99775
(907) 474-7955
muscarellalab.github.io
pronouns: he/him/his
UAF is located on Troth Yeddha', the traditional lands of the
Lower Tanana Dene People
UA is an AA/EO employer and educational institution and prohibits
illegal discrimination against any individual: www.alaska.edu/nondiscrimination/
Posted 3/13/24
Biology
MS opening in Kaproth Lab - Minnesota State University, Mankato
The Kaproth Lab is looking for an exceptional Biology MS graduate
student to work on oak functional traits or herbarium/prairie
conservation projects starting in the Fall of 2024. https://cset.mnsu.edu/departments/biological-sciences/faculty-and-staff/matthew-kaproth/matthew-kaproths-research/
The position includes a full tuition waiver and a $10k Graduate
Teaching Assistantship stipend (additional summer Graduate
Research Assistantships are possible if working on herbarium
curation or funded projects). https://cset.mnsu.edu/departments/biological-sciences/graduate-programs/ready-to-apply/
The academic portion of the degree will take place at Minnesota
State University, Mankato. https://cset.mnsu.edu/departments/biological-sciences/graduate-programs/
The candidate must be *highly motivated* and have a strong
interest in plant ecology (projects can include investigations in
biogeography and ecophysiology using GIS, statistics/analysis, and
biodiversity surveys). Projects have potential to fit within model
systems in the evolution of stress tolerance developed with a
group of collaborators across the Americas and Europe. The
research may be conducted as analysis of large datasets, models,
regional field work and/or greenhouse/lab work. Research and
teaching could require that the graduate student mentors and
coordinates undergraduate student assistants, and that they can
drive/work in adverse (hot) conditions.
Caveat: I do not expect the candidate to know exactly what project
they would want to research going into the degree, but they should
be driven to investigate ecological or plant
systematics/conservation questions.
To apply, email Dr. Matthew Kaproth by March 29th with the
following:
1. A letter of interest that tells me about your research
interests, background, types of questions you are interested in,
etc.;
2. An unofficial university transcript (your undergraduate GPA
should be >3.0 - see second link above for minimum
requirements);
3. Outstanding communication and writing skills;
4. Your CV with the names and contact information for three
references;
5. Anything else that you think makes you uniquely qualified for
the position.
Here is a part of what I can contribute:
1. Attentive mentorship and career development;
2. Training in plant systematics, biostatistics, plant
biology/ecology, ecophysiology and experimental design;
3. Teaching opportunities (TA with stipend and tuition waiver);
4. Summer and supplemental Research Assistantship support during
school breaks may be possible - but is not promised (projects
would need to be funded or base on herbarium curation);
5. Contacts in academia and with regional partners (Dept. of
Natural Resources, the University of Minnesota, The Prairie
Enthusiasts, Morton Arboretum, The Chicago Botanical Garden,
etc.);
6. An ally and an environment that encourages a healthy work-life
balance.
Matthew Kaproth, PhD (he/him/his)
Associate Professor
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Dept. of Biological Sciences
https://cset.mnsu.edu/departments/biological-sciences/faculty-and-staff/matthew-kaproth/
Posted 3/9/24
MSc
Project in Conservation Biology
The Spatial Community Ecology Laboratory at Utah State University
(http://www.spatialcommunityecology.com/)
is seeking MSc applicants to undertake research in the field of
freshwater community ecology. The position is part of a project
funded by Utah State to identify climate corridors for wildlife
across the state. The central goal of the project is increase the
resilience of future on-the-ground management actions by informing
management agencies about climate refuges. The project will
predominantly utilize existing datasets in direct conjunction with
state agencies, however the successful student will also be
encouraged to conduct their own research within the sphere of
conservation planning. The project will start in August of 2024,
and the successful applicant will be based in Logan UT.
The successful candidate will have access to office spaces,
computing facilities, lab space if they require, and Utah State
University's nearby outdoor Aquatic Research Facility that houses
90 mesocosms and experimental ponds. The research group also has
strong ties to global conservation programs such as the United
Nations Environmental Program. Experience/knowledge of GIS
techniques will be looked upon favorably. Candidates interested in
pursuing field projects should be reasonably physically fit, and
be able to carry a 40lb backpack 1 mile.
Utah State University (http://www.usu.edu) is a Research
I (Extensive Doctoral) land-grant institution with a student body
of over 24,000, 42 departments, 8 academic colleges, a school of
Graduate Studies, and diverse research programs. The main campus
is located in Logan, a community of 100,000 people. Logan is 85
miles north of Salt Lake City in scenic Cache Valley, a semi-rural
mountain basin with nearby ski resorts, lakes, rivers, and
mountains providing many recreational opportunities. The area has
a low cost of living and provides a high quality of life. For more
information on Logan see http://www.tourcachevalley.com.
This is a fully funded position for the first year, however
candidates will be encouraged to source additional funds to run
their own projects. Starting salaries are $23,000 for a MSc. In
addition, successful candidates will have the opportunity to work
as teaching assistants to supplement their starting salaries.
Please contact Edd Hammill (edd.hammill@usu.edu, 435
265 5964) for more information or to submit application materials
(CV, cover letter, any publications, details of their research
interests). Initial review of applications will begin May 1st
2024. As the funding has been secured through an external award
made to the research team, the position is open to international
students.
Edd Hammill's google scholar page - https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=THOE6q0AAAAJ&hl=en
Posted 3/7/24
PhD
Position in Microbial Ecology
The Muscarella Lab at the University of Alaska Fairbanks is
recruiting a Ph.D. student interested in studying microbial
communities in Arctic ecosystems. This position is part of a large
collaborative project studying the dynamics of Arctic tundra
ecosystems, from microbes to landscapes. The graduate student will
participate in remote field campaigns, lab work (soil incubations,
DNA extractions, metagenomics, and qSIP), and bioinformatics. A
strong microbiology, microbial ecology, or ecosystem genomics
background is preferred.
Location: University of Alaska Fairbanks
Start: Fall 2024. Option available to start mid-July for fieldwork
Graduate Program Details: https://www.uaf.edu/bw/graduate/phd-biological-sciences.php
For more information: Contact Dr. Mario Muscarella
(memuscarella[at]alaska.edu) with CV and statement of interest.
Posted 3/7/24
Ph.D.
Graduate Research Assistantships (2) at the USGS Wyoming
Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of
Wyoming
https://www.uwyo.edu/zoology/index.html;
https://wyocoopunit.org/labs/chalfoun‐lab/;
https://www.uwyo.edu/pie/index.html;
https://wyobird.org/
Application Deadline: Open until positions filled.
Starting date: Approximately 8/26/24
Stipend: $26,400 ($2200/month), plus tuition, fees, health
insurance Location: Laramie, WY USA
Description:
The Chalfoun lab within the USGS Wyoming Cooperative Fish and
Wildlife Research Unit and Department of Zoology and
Physiology/Program in Ecology and Evolution has vacancies for two
new doctoral Graduate Research Assistants for fall 2024 (or
earlier). One will be focused on sagebrush‐obligate songbirds, and
the other on investigating the mechanisms underlying western
forest songbird declines. The students will be part of the Coop
Unit, campus‐wide doctoral Program in Ecology and Evolution, and
new WYOBIRD initiative (https://wyobird.org/).
The sagebrush songbird project has some flexibility in terms of
specific foci, but the student could take advantage of a partially
marked (color‐banded) population of the three sagebrush‐obligates
(Brewer’s sparrow, sagebrush sparrow, sage thrasher) and on‐going
nest‐monitoring (since 2008) and mark‐recapture (since 2021) data
collection within a landscape spanning a gradient of human
disturbance (natural gas development). This long‐term project is
in collaboration with the USGS Wyoming Landscape Conservation
Initiative (WLCI) and Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
The forest songbird project will focus on testing hypotheses for
the factors underlying declines in many species of western forest
songbirds. The first phase of the project will entail using
existing data sources (BBS, IMBCR) to broadly test potential
hypotheses, and the second phase can include a follow‐up field
component. The student selected for this project must have strong
quantitative skills, and an interest in working with existing
trend, spatial, and climatic data. This project is a collaboration
with the U.S. Forest Service, Wyoming Game and Fish Department,
and Greater Yellowstone Conservation Coalition.
Minimum Requirements/Qualifications:
1. B.S. or B.A. in wildlife, biology, ecology, statistics, or a
related field.
2. Strong quantitative skills (especially forest songbird
position).
3. Some relevant field research experience.
4. Commitment to maintaining an inclusive and respectful work
environment.
5. Commitment to dissemination of research results via publication
in peer‐reviewed journals and presentations at conferences and to
project partners.
6. Strong work ethic and ability to work well independently and
collaboratively.
7. Strong interest in research, avian ecology, and wildlife
conservation.
8. Ability and willingness to communicate respectfully with
project partners and other colleagues/peers.
Highly Desirable Qualifications:
1. M.S. degree in wildlife, biology, ecology, statistics, or a
related field.
2. Experience with trend and/or spatial analyses in R or similar
and working with large datasets (forest songbird position).
3. Record of at least one peer‐reviewed scientific publication.
4. Experience with capture, safe handling, and marking of small
birds.
5. Strong writing skills.
To Apply:
Please email (1) a cover letter outlining interests and
qualifications, (2) an up‐to‐date CV, and (3) names and contact
information (phone and email) for three potential professional
references, aggregated in a single pdf document to: Dr. Anna
Chalfoun, achalfou@uwyo.edu. Review of
applications will begin immediately and continue until qualified
candidates are identified. Please address any questions to Dr.
Anna Chalfoun at achalfou@uwyo.edu.
Posted 3/6/24
MS
Graduate Research Assistantship (Pygmy rabbits) at the USGS
Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University
of Wyoming
https://www.uwyo.edu/zoology/index.html;
https://wyocoopunit.org/labs/chalfoun‐lab/
Application Deadline: Open until positions filled. Starting date:
Approximately 8/26/24
Stipend: $24,000 ($2000/month), plus tuition, fees, and health
insurance
Location: Laramie, WY USA
Description:
The Chalfoun lab within the USGS Wyoming Cooperative Fish and
Wildlife Research Unit and Department of Zoology and Physiology at
the University of Wyoming has a funded, masters‐level Graduate
Research Assistantship available for fall 2024. The research will
focus on understanding the relative influence of different types
of habitat components (e.g., microclimate versus shrub and soil
characteristics) on the occurrence, abundance, and habitat
preferences of pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis)
within their range in Wyoming. The Pygmy rabbit recently was
petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act, and is a
Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Wyoming. The work will be
in collaboration with the main funder, the Wyoming Game and Fish
Department. Some components of the project also will be in
collaboration with the lab of Dr. Janet Rachlow at the University
of Idaho, such that the results have broader and regional
applicability.
Minimum Requirements/Qualifications:
1. B.S. or B.A. in wildlife, biology, ecology, statistics, or a
related field.
2. Some relevant field research experience.
3. Commitment to maintaining an inclusive and respectful work
environment.
4. Commitment to dissemination of research results via publication
in peer‐reviewed journals and presentations at conferences and to
project partners.
5. Strong work ethic and ability to work well independently and
collaboratively.
6. Strong interest in research, ecology, animal behavior, and
wildlife conservation.
7. Ability and willingness to communicate respectfully with
project partners and other colleagues/peers.
Highly Desirable Qualifications:
1. Undergraduate research and publishing experience.
2. Experience with capture and safe handling of small mammals. 3.
Strong writing and quantitative skills.
To Apply:
Please email (1) a cover letter outlining interests and
qualifications, (2) an up‐to‐date CV, and (3) names and contact
information (phone and email) for three potential professional
references, aggregated in a single pdf document to: Dr. Anna
Chalfoun, achalfou@uwyo.edu.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a
qualified candidate is identified. Please address any questions to
Dr. Anna Chalfoun at achalfou@uwyo.edu.
Posted 3/6/24
Ph.D.
Assistantship: PFAS in wild game - University of Maine
A PhD position is available at the University of Maine, starting
in the Fall 2024 semester. The student will be advised by Dr.
Pauline Kamath and collaborate closely with wildlife biologists
and researchers at the University of Maine, Maine Department of
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and U.S. Geological Survey Maine
Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, to examine exposures
to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS; also known as
"forever chemicals") in native game species, including wild
turkeys, deer, waterfowl, and moose. This project will also
involve examining relationships between PFAS, parasite infections,
movement and space use, and fitness in these species. The
contamination of wildlife by PFAS is a significant concern for
both animal and public health, and wild game hold considerable
cultural and economic value to the state of Maine.
A PhD position is available at the University of Maine, starting
in the Fall 2024 semester. The student will be advised by Dr.
Pauline Kamath and collaborate closely with wildlife biologists
and researchers at the University of Maine, Maine Department of
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and U.S. Geological Survey Maine
Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, to examine exposures
to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS; also known as
"forever chemicals") in native game species, including wild
turkeys, deer, waterfowl, and moose. This project will also
involve examining relationships between PFAS, parasite infections,
movement and space use, and fitness in these species. The
contamination of wildlife by PFAS is a significant concern for
both animal and public health, and wild game hold considerable
cultural and economic value to the state of Maine.
HOW TO APPLY: Please send (1) a cover letter describing your
qualifications, including relevant research experience, including
field, laboratory and quantitative skills, coursework, experience
working in interdisciplinary teams, as well as a description of
how your interests relate to the described project; (2) a CV; (3)
unofficial transcripts; and (4) contact information for three
references.
Combine materials into one (PDF) application file, and email it
with the subject line, "PFAS in Game PhD Position," to Pauline
Kamath at pauline.kamath@maine.edu.
DEADLINE: All applications received before March 29th will
receive full consideration, but applications will continue to be
accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The University of Maine is an EEO/AA employer and does not
discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, including transgender status and gender expression,
national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, genetic
information or veteran's status in employment, education, and all
other programs and activities. Please contact the Director of
Equal Opportunity, 101 N. Stevens Hall, Orono, ME 04469 at
207-581-1226 (voice), TTY 711 (Maine Relay System), or equal.opportunity@maine.edu
with questions or concerns.
Posted 3/6/24
Masters
in Conservation and Restoration (MCRS) Graduate Program at
UC-Irvine accepting applications for Fall 2024
Are you or do you have students or colleagues who are interested
in a career as a leader in the conservation and management of
natural resources?
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and the Center
for Environmental Biology (CEB) at the University of California,
Irvine, are accepting applications for our professional,
field-based Masters in Conservation and Restoration Science (MCRS)
graduate program providing training for students interested in
careers in the research and management of our terrestrial and
marine natural resources. The MCRS degree provides students with
the academic and professional skills needed to study, protect, and
conserve natural resources and to hold leadership and management
positions in environmental fields related to conservation,
restoration, and sustainability.
For more information, visit the MCRS webpage (http://mcrs.bio.uci.edu),
or contact Courtney Hunt, MCRS Academic Coordinator, at cchunt@uci.edu.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis; the final review
deadline is June 30.
Posted 3/6/24
M.S.
Assistantship Position in Tree Ecophysiology for Conservation
M.S. Assistantship: Does Adaptive Flood Management in Greentree
Reservoirs Improve Red Oak Seedling Survival and Health?
College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources,
University of Arkansas at Monticello
The College of Forestry, Agriculture & Natural Resources at
the University of Arkansas at Monticello is seeking applicants for
a M.S. Assistantship available beginning August 16, 2024. The
assistantship carries an annual stipend of $18,000 plus tuition.
Project: Greentree reservoirs (GTRs), wetland forests with
human-controlled hydroperiods, provide a variety of ecosystem
services, including habitat for migratory waterfowl. Red oak
species are key components of these ecosystems, but are threatened
by current management practices. Studies are needed to test
potential sustainable management practices for GTRs. The MS
student's thesis research will include field studies and possibly
controlled environment studies to better understand the
interactive effects of temperature, flood, and dormancy on oak
health and root physiology. Studies will answer questions that are
not only key to improving GTR management, but also invaluable for
restoration of bottomland hardwood forests with natural
hydroperiods. The successful candidate will have the opportunity
to learn relevant research techniques, and to interact with
representatives from state and federal conservation agencies
working to develop scientifically informed management
recommendations for GTR forests.
Requirements: Applicants must have a 2.7 overall undergraduate GPA
or 3.0 GPA in the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate courses
and satisfactory GRE scores. A B.S. degree in a natural
resources-related field is also required. Applicants must have a
valid U.S. driver's license or obtain the same within 60 days of
starting employment. Overnight travel is required as well as the
ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Location and Facilities: The College of Forestry, Agriculture
& Natural Resources is located in Monticello, Arkansas in the
southeastern portion of the state. The Arkansas Forest Resources
Center is also headquartered here, and is administered by the
University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. The
Arkansas Forest Resources Center is the research and extension arm
for forest-based programs within the State. Additionally, the US
Forest Service Arkansas Forestry Sciences Lab is located at the
College. The College and Center maintain several state-of-the-art
laboratories (hydrology, soil, quantitative analysis,
silviculture, wildlife ecology & management) available for
graduate research and education.
Application & Additional Information: Graduate program
information can be found at https://www.uamont.edu/academics/CFANR/grad-degrees.html.
Applicants must apply to the College of Forestry, Agriculture and
Natural Resources at https://cfanr.embark.com/apply/graduateschool2023
You will be required to submit application information, unofficial
transcripts, a statement of interest, and three references.
Applicants must be admitted to the University of Arkansas at
Monticello and apply to the College of Forestry, Agriculture &
Natural Resources before they can be considered for an
assistantship. For application assistance, contact Rhonda Parris
at parris@uamont.edu.
For position information, contact Dr. Benjamin Babst, babst@uamont.edu,
(870) 460-1348.
The position is available until a qualified applicant is selected.
UAM is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer
Position #2024-05
Posted 3/6/24
Accepting
graduate students in evolutionary demography of
mycoheterotrophic plants
The Shefferson lab at the University of Tokyo is recruiting
graduate students at both the MS and PhD levels for a JSPS-funded
research project dealing with life history evolution in
long-lived, mycoheterotrophic plants.
The Shefferson lab specializes in evolutionary demography,
plant/microbial evolution, and computational methods in ecology
and evolution. In addition to our current work on
mycoheterotrophy, we also study trade-offs, population dynamics,
the conservation of rare plant populations, and mycorrhizal
evolution, and we develop computational packages related to these
topics (e.g., R package lefko3 at https://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/lefko3/index.html).
Students applying to work in the lab may focus on these topics, or
choose other research themes in plant and microbial evolutionary
ecology. Research methods typically involve in situ monitoring and
experimentation, combined with modeling and analysis based in R
and/or C++. Ongoing field projects are located in Estonia, Japan,
the United Kingdom, and the United States. Interested students may
read about our projects through our website, www.sheffersonlab.com,
as well as the Journal of Ecology blog (https://jecologyblog.com/2018/03/22/richard-shefferson/),
Popular Science (https://www.popsci.com/plants-dormant-climate-change),
and other media sources.
We are located within the University of Tokyo, at the Komaba
Campus. U Tokyo is home to some of the finest scientists in Japan,
including ecologists and evolutionary biologists, and more Nobel
laureates than you can shake a stick at. We offer graduate
programs in both Japanese and English. Students wishing to pursue
their graduate research may do so fully in English via the
Graduate Program in Environmental Sciences (http://gpes.c.u-tokyo.ac.jp/),
or may pursue study in Japanese via the General Systems Sciences
program (http://system.c.u-tokyo.ac.jp/).
Please note that we have two entry periods per year, with strict
application deadlines. Please contact the lab for updated
deadlines, but note that applications must be complete and include
an official GRE score. There will be an application deadline in
July 2024 for entry in April 2025, and another deadline in
November 2024 for entry in September 2025.
If interested, please contact me, and please also explore the
Shefferson lab website: www.sheffersonlab.com
E-mail:cdorm@g.ecc.u-tokyo.ac.jp
HTML: www.sheffersonlab.com
Posted 3/5/24
Graduate
Research Assistant Position at the University of Southern
Mississippi
One M.S. position is available in the Division of Coastal
Sciences, School of Ocean Science and Engineering, The University
of Southern Mississippi (https://www.usm.edu/ocean-science-engineering/index.php).
The campus is located at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (https://www.usm.edu/gcrl)
in the City of Ocean Springs on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
The graduate student is expected to start in the fall semester of
2024, and will conduct research on evaluating the impact of
climate change and sea-level rise on coastal wetlands and help
provide guidance on the design of living shoreline projects.
Coastal wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the
world and provide a wide variety of key ecosystem services.
Conserving and restoring coastal wetlands applying nature-based
solutions such as living shorelines is critical for them to
continue to provide societal benefits. In addition to conducting
field experiments and computer simulations, the student has the
opportunity to work with an interdisciplinary research team and
study the questions using a social science perspective.
Applicants should be highly motivated to learn new research
skills, have a BS with background in ecology, geography, or a
closely related field with a GPA of 3.0 and above. Experiences in
quantitative modeling, or GIS/Remote Sensing are desirable but not
required. Assistantship with competitive stipend and tuition
waiver will be provided.
Interested candidates should send an email describing their past
experiences and their motivation for pursuing a graduate degree,
along with a resume, unofficial college transcripts, and the names
and contact information of 3 references to Dr. Wei Wu wei.wu@usm.edu,
Professor, Division of Coastal Sciences, The University of
Southern Mississippi, Ocean Springs, MS 39564. Review of
applications will begin immediately and continue until the
position is filled.
As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity
employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The
University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women,
veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.
Posted 2/29/24
Open
position: Texas A&M M.S. student in grassland restoration,
climate-smart strategies and C cycling
Open position: fully funded M.S. student in grassland restoration,
climate-smart strategies and C cycling
Start date: Review of applications will begin immediately and
continue until the position is filled.
Position: Fully funded M.S student in grassland restoration and C
cycling
Offered by: Texas A&M Department of Rangeland, Wildlife, and
Fisheries Management
Department’s application deadline: April 1, 2024
Lab supervisor: Dr. Nuria Gomez-Casanovas, Assistant Professor
Research fields: biogeochemistry, climate-smart strategies,
restoration ecology
DESCRIPTION
The Gomez-Casanovas Lab is seeking for an enthusiastic and highly
motivated student to investigate how invasive woody species
removal and climate-smart strategies (biochar amendments) affect
the C cycling of grassland ecosystems in Texas. The successful
candidate will join the Department of Rangeland, Wildlife, and
Fisheries Management at Texas A&M University under the
supervision of Dr. Gomez-Casanovas, Assistant Professor, and Dr.
Jeff Goodwin, Assistant Professor and Director of the Center for
Grazinglands and Ranch Management.
The successful applicant will conduct biogeochemistry-focused
research using lab-based gas exchange methods, process-based
modeling, stable isotope tools and biometric methods. Ideally, the
student will start in Summer or Fall 2024. This is a funded
position supported by a research assistantship that includes
tuition and fees, health insurance and competitive salary.
Typically, M.S. students spend 2 semesters on the main campus at
College Station (TX) before moving to the Gomez-Casanovas’ Lab at
Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center at Vernon (TX). The
selected student will be expected to publish their work in
peer-reviewed journals.
The Lab combines novel lab, field and modeling experiments in a
holistic way to advance science at the nexus of Food, Energy and
Environmental Security. The successful candidate will have the
opportunity to join a vibrant and diverse research community
promoting a culture of collaboration and cross-disciplinary
research at Texas A&M AgriLife and the Department, and work
with scientists at the Texas A&M University Natural Resource
Institute. The project is part of a larger Department of Defense
initiative that aims at integrating climate adaptation and
resilience into all aspects of decision-making including natural
resources management.
Required QUALIFICATIONS
-Bachelor's degree in biology or related field.
-Great written and oral communication skills
-Ability to work independently and with a team
-Clear interest in biogeochemistry
Department GRADUATE Program Requirements
For more information check https://admissions.tamu.edu/apply/graduate
-GPA higher than 3.0 out of 4.0 (3.25 preferred)
-International students, TOEFL (internet-based test) of 85 or
greater
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
-Previous experience in a research laboratory
-Experience using biometric methods, lab-based gas exchange
methods, process-based models and stable isotopes.
-Demonstrated coursework in biogeochemistry and grassland ecology
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants should email a statement of interest (2 pages maximum)
a resume or CV copy of GPA, and names, phone numbers and e-mail
addresses for three references
To: Dr. Gomez-Casanovas via email (nuri.gomez-casanovas@ag.tamu.edu)
with subject line ‘MS assistantship in grassland restoration,
climate-smart strategies and C cycling’.
The review of candidate applications will begin immediately and
continue until the position is filled. The Department’s
application deadline is April 1, 2024. Contact Dr.
Gomez-Casanovas via email (nuri.gomez-casanovas@ag.tamu.edu)
for more information.
Posted 2/28/24
Ph.D.
Student Wanted: Genomics of mammals, Oregon State University
The Epps Conservation Genetics lab in the Department of Fisheries,
Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences at Oregon State University
seeks a Ph.D. student to generate and analyze mammalian genomic
data sets from ongoing research projects on species such as
bighorn sheep, blacktailed deer, aardvarks, and pikas.
Requirements: We seek a candidate with an undergraduate degree in
a (broadly) relevant field, and demonstrated experience with
bioinformatics, laboratory research (DNA based in particular,
e.g., library prep), and genetic or genomic data.
Preferred criteria: We prefer candidates with some field
experience or interest in field work, as this graduate position
could include some field work in the western United States or
sub-Saharan Africa, but this is not required. Additionally, we
prefer candidates with a research-based Master’s degree in a
relevant field. For Master’s level students, evidence of prior
publication in peer reviewed journals is strongly preferred.
Applications will be considered as they are received until a
suitable candidate is identified, but we suggest applying by April
1 if a fall start is desired.
Expected Start Date: September 16, 2024 or later
Expected End Date: Completion of Ph.D.
Funding status: Partly funded, will incorporate a mix of Graduate
Research Assistantships and Graduate Teaching Assistantships, will
seek additional funding depending on project
To apply, please email Prof. Clinton W. Epps at Clinton.epps@oregonstate.edu,
and include “genomics Ph.D.” in subject line.
The Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences
has just approved shifting to a holistic graduate admissions
process, in part out of a desire to attract a broader range of
applicants. We are still working out the details! But, at this
time, in your application email please include:
(1) a cover letter detailing how you meet the required and
preferred qualifications, and outlining your existing research
interests, personal background, and career goals. If you have
completed a Master’s degree, please include specifics about that
research, and PDFs of any publications that you have authored or
co-authored.
(2) a CV
(3) an unofficial copy of all transcripts from completed or
ongoing degrees
(4) a sample of your professional writing
(5) GRE scores are not required but you are welcome to report them
(report verbal, quantitative, and written scores separately, and
report percentiles)
Posted 2/21/24
Graduate
Student Positions in Algal Ecology and Biotechnology
The Corcoran Lab (corcoranalgaelab.com)
is currently recruiting graduate students to start in August 2024
in the NMSU Biology Department. Research in the lab focuses on the
structure and function of aquatic ecosystems, with an emphasis on
microalgal biology and ecology. A strong focus is algal-bacterial
interactions, including both beneficial and parasitic
relationships. At present, there are very few algal-bacterial
model systems. We seek to develop new model systems in a variety
of platform algae to better understand these interactions at all
levels: from molecular to population. Day-to-day work in the lab
can be conducted in the lab or field. The Corcoran Lab maintains
over twenty 300L outdoor cultivation ponds at the nearby Fabian
Garcia Science Center, offering a unique opportunity to ask
cultivation-relevant questions. Exact research topics are flexible
but should build on the group's resources and or previous work.
Earning a biology degree with a focus on algal biology, ecology,
and biotechnology provides graduates with a diverse skill set and
a broad understanding of microorganisms, ecological systems, and
biotechnological applications. This skill set is relevant to
addressing current challenges in health, the environment, and
sustainability. Additionally, the emphasis on algal ecology offers
opportunities to explore sustainability and the potential for
sustainable practices, such as the development of algae-based
biofuels. A graduate degree in the Corcoran Lab will equip you
with comprehensive training in laboratory techniques, experimental
design, data collection and analysis, manuscript preparation, and
scientific communication, preparing graduates for their careers
ahead.
The minimum qualifications for the position include:
(1) a B.S. or M.S. in biology, marine science, microbiology, or
related field
(2) basic knowledge of algal or plant biology, molecular biology,
and microbiology
(3) a minimum GPA of 3.25
(4) laboratory experience (experience with algal and bacterial
cultures is a plus)
(5) the ability to work independently as well as with a diverse
research group
For consideration, please email (1) a one-page cover letter
describing your research interests and career goals, (2) your CV,
(3) unofficial transcripts, and (4) contact information for three
professional references (all compiled into a single PDF) to Dr.
Corcoran at acor@nmsu.edu.
If there is a good fit, applicants will be required to apply to
the Graduate School (deadline: April 15, 2024). At
this point, we are only considering applicants with work
authorization in the US. For more information on the application
process in the Biology Department, please see the department's
webpage.
Alina Corcoran, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Department of Biology
New Mexico State University
Office: (575) 646-3228; Cell: (207) 465-6116
corcoranalgaelab.com
Posted 2/21/24
Graduate
Assistantships: mussel ecology - Texas A&M University
1 PhD graduate assistantship and 2 MS graduate assistantship are
available under the supervision of Dr. Charles Randklev and Dr.
Roel Lopez in the Texas A&M Natural Resource Institute and
Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management. The
PhD assistantship will focus on evaluating population dynamics for
rare species to inform recovery efforts. The first MS
assistantship will focus on evaluating growth using lab and
field-based methods. The second MS assistantship will focus on
testing lethal and sublethal temperature assays to inform
environmental flow efforts.
Funding for this project is from state and federal natural
resource agencies
For the PhD assistantship a full stipend (grant funded Research
Assistantship) for 3 years will be provided: ~$35,000/yr (tuition
+ salary).
For the MS assistantships a full stipend (grant funded Research
Assistantship) for 2 years will be provided: ~$32,000/yr (tuition
+ salary).
Start date: flexible but ideally Summer of 2024
Last Date to apply: May 15, 2024
More information about the graduate program in the Department of
Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management - https://rwfm.tamu.edu.
More information about the mussel research program at NRI-TAMU: https://dallas.tamu.edu/research/mussels/
Qualifications:
Required: For MS assistantship - BS in Biology or related field;
previous research experience in aquatic ecology, community
ecology, or ecotoxicology. For PHD assistantship - MS in Biology
or related field; previous research experience in environmental
modeling and statistics. Applicants should have strong analytical,
oral, and written communication skills, plus detail oriented and
the ability to work independently; valid drivers license is
required; must be comfortable in the water and outdoors. GPA
>3.0; GRE scores > 60th percentile (153 verbal and 156
quantitative).
Preferred: For MS assistantship - research experience with
freshwater mussels (unionids); publications in ecotoxicology,
stream ecology, or community ecology; For PHD assistantship -
publications using species distribution models, strong statistical
background, and ability to code; GPA >3.5; GRE scores >70th
percentile (156 verbal and 159 quantitative).
Before applying, please email a single PDF document to BOTH Dr.
Randklev (crandklev@ag.tamu.edu)
AND Dr. Lopez (roel.lopez@ag.tamu.edu)
that contains: (1) a letter of interest describing your
qualifications, experience and background, (2) your CV, (3) GRE
scores, (4) GPA and unofficial transcripts, and (5) contact
information for 3 academic/research references. Feel free to
contact us for more information about the graduate program, our
research, and more specifics about the project.
Posted 2/8/24
Graduate
Student Positions in Algal Ecology and Biotechnology
The Corcoran Lab (corcoranalgaelab.com)
is currently recruiting graduate students to start in August 2024
in the NMSU Biology Department. Research in the lab focuses on the
structure and function of aquatic ecosystems, with an emphasis on
microalgal biology and ecology. A strong focus is algal-bacterial
interactions, including both beneficial and parasitic
relationships. At present, there are very few algal-bacterial
model systems. We seek to develop new model systems in a variety
of platform algae to better understand these interactions at all
levels: from molecular to population. Day-to-day work in the lab
can be conducted in the lab or field. The Corcoran Lab maintains
over twenty 300L outdoor cultivation ponds at the nearby Fabian
Garcia Science Center, offering a unique opportunity to ask
cultivation-relevant questions. Exact research topics are flexible
but should build on the group's resources and or previous work.
Earning a biology degree with a focus on algal biology, ecology,
and biotechnology provides graduates with a diverse skill set and
a broad understanding of microorganisms, ecological systems, and
biotechnological applications. This skill set is relevant to
addressing current challenges in health, the environment, and
sustainability. Additionally, the emphasis on algal ecology offers
opportunities to explore sustainability and the potential for
sustainable practices, such as the development of algae-based
biofuels. A graduate degree in the Corcoran Lab will equip you
with comprehensive training in laboratory techniques, experimental
design, data collection and analysis, manuscript preparation, and
scientific communication, preparing graduates for their careers
ahead.
The minimum qualifications for the position include:
(1) a B.S. or M.S. in biology, marine science, microbiology, or
related field
(2) basic knowledge of algal or plant biology, molecular biology,
and microbiology
(3) a minimum GPA of 3.25
(4) laboratory experience (experience with algal and bacterial
cultures is a plus)
(5) the ability to work independently as well as with a diverse
research group
For consideration, please email (1) a one-page cover letter
describing your research interests and career goals, (2) your CV,
(3) unofficial transcripts, and (4) contact information for three
professional references (all compiled into a single PDF) to Dr.
Corcoran at acor@nmsu.edu.
If there is a good fit, applicants will be required to apply to
the Graduate School (deadline: April 15, 2024). At
this point, we are only considering applicants with work
authorization in the US. For more information on the application
process in the Biology Department, please see the department's
webpage.
Alina Corcoran, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Department of Biology
New Mexico State University
Office: (575) 646-3228; Cell: (207) 465-6116
corcoranalgaelab.com
Posted 1/27/24
Two
PhD Positions Available in Climate Change AI at Michigan
Technological University
Assistantship Description: Two PhD positions are available with
Dr. Tao Liu at Michigan Technological University. The student will
use machine learning\deep learning methods with remote sensing
data to solve problems relevant to climate change. Specifically,
the student will choose one of the following three areas:
1. Phenotyping Individual Trees with
Drone and Handheld Remote Sensing Systems
· Utilize LiDAR
data to precisely map the individual trees in natural forests.
· Employ LiDAR
data for detailed analysis of morphological traits at the
individual tree level, including measurements of height, stem
form, diameter at breast height (DBH), and leaf characteristics
such as leaf area index (LAI), leaf area density (LAD), color,
distribution, and angle, along with canopy features like volume,
coverage, structure, and phenological aspects (e.g., flowering
periods, leaf coloration timing, leaf expansion, and leaf fall).
· Process optical
remote sensing data to assess biochemical traits, including
chlorophyll and lignin content, and water use efficiency at the
individual tree level.
2. Forest Health Mapping and
Understanding Mechanisms
· Utilize aerial
and satellite remote sensing platforms combined with deep learning
techniques to conduct large-scale forest health mapping at the
national level.
· Employ AI
technologies for predicting forest health trends.
· Investigate the
influence of various factors on forest health, particularly the
role of climate change, using AI technologies.
3. Wildfire Mapping and Forecasting
· Integrate
Sentinel and Landsat imagery to accurately identify the ignition
points of wildfires.
· Use the Pytorch
forecasting package, integrating multiple data types, to predict
wildfire probabilities.
Qualifications:
· U.S. citizens,
nationals and permanent residents
· MS or BS degree
in environmental science, forestry, geography, computer science,
data science or other related fields.
· Programming
skills using Python.
· Remote sensing
research or image processing experience
· Strong
communication skills, both in terms of formal written
reports/manuscripts and oral presentations.
Funding: The selected candidate will be funded with NSF Research
Traineeship program.
Timing: The start date is Fall 2024. Please send your materials by
April 1st 2024.The position is available immediately and
open until filled.
Application Procedure:
Applicant should email Dr. Tao Liu at taoliu@mtu.edu to express your
interest in the position. Please include a brief cover letter
describing your relevant qualifications and interest in the
project.
MTU Description:
Michigan Tech is located in Houghton, MI in the heart of
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Houghton is situated on the hills
bordering the beautiful Portage Waterway and is only minutes from
the Lake Superior shoreline. The area offers a bounty of cultural
and recreational opportunities and a low cost of living. Houghton
was rated as the 15th Greatest Place to Live in America by Outside
Magazine in 2014. This environment combined with a great research
opportunity results in an excellent quality of life.
Tao Liu, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor in Remote Sensing and GIS
College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science
Michigan Technological University
Office number: +1(906) 487-1720
Email: taoliu@mtu.edu
Noblet Building 169
1400 Townsend Drive
Houghton, MI 49931
Posted 1/11/24
Return to
Graduate School Page