Ph.D. GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIP is available beginning August 2009 within the Ecology Department, Montana State University (MSU) to work on nesting ecology of ducks in North and South Dakota. The research will investigate the role of winter wheat to nesting success at multiple spatial scales. Preliminary data suggest that nests in winter wheat fields may have high survival rates, and funding is now in place to conduct an intensive investigation of factors influencing nest survival in landscapes where a winter cereals program is in place. The student’s research advisor will be Jay Rotella. The work will be done in close conjunction with biologists and GIS specialists at the Great Plains Regional Office of Ducks Unlimited.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
M.S. in wildlife biology, conservation biology, ecology, natural resource management, or related field. Background in basics of applied statistics. Skill in communicating scientific results in peer-reviewed literature. Strong work ethic and demonstrated ability to lead and conduct field research. The successful applicant must have a GRE of over 1100 (verbal and quantitative).
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience with generalized linear models, mark-recapture modeling and associated software packages, demographic parameter estimation and modeling, field logistics, and field work. Knowledge of theoretical and applied population ecology.
STIPEND: 18,000 USD per year (1,500 USD per month). Room & board expenses will be covered during the field season. Out-of-state tuition waiver provided.
APPLICATION: Deadline: 10/05/2009
Prospective candidates should mail
(1) a cover letter;
(2) curriculum vitae;
(3) copy of transcripts & GRE scores (official copies not necessary at this time);
(4) examples of your work (e.g., M.S. thesis, journal articles, or journal-article submissions);
5) the names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses of at least three individuals who have first-hand knowledge of your research experience and professional abilities
to Jay Rotella
Dr. Jay Rotella
Ecology Department
Montana State University
Bozeman, MT 59717
USA
We will begin reviewing applications on 10/05/2009 and continue to accept applications until the position is filled.
Back to PhD Scholarships Information
Back to Scholarships Information