A Ph.D. research assistantship will be available spring/summer 2011 to study distribution abundance and habitat relationships of the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis jamaicensis) and the Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus vennator) in the Luquillo Mountains and the Cordillera Central of Puerto Rico. This study will examine hypotheses related to population and landscape ecology of two insular raptor species. Results of this research are linked to restoration strategies for the critically endangered Puerto Rican Parrot (Amazona vittata). This project will provide the successful applicant opportunities to develop and apply field techniques as well as advanced statistical analysis and other quantitative skills. Graduate studies will lead to a Ph.D. in Forest Resources at Mississippi State University.
QUALIFICATIONS: Completion of M.S. in zoology, ecology, conservation biology, wildlife management or related field. Upper percentile undergraduate and graduate course transcripts and GRE scores required. Applicants with knowledge of raptor survey techniques, distance sampling, occupancy modeling, and landscape habitat modeling are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will work with field technicians recruited from local universities in Puerto Rico. Working knowledge of Spanish desirable, but not required. Field research will be conducted in the El Yunque National Forest, located in the Luquillo Mountains, and the Maricao Forest, located in the Cordillera Central of Puerto Rico. SALARY: $21,000 including tuition and fringe benefits APPLICATION: I will begin reviewing applications upon receipt; the desired start date is January 2011. Send resume including copy of academic transcripts, GRE scores, and 3 references to Dr. Francisco J. Vilella at [email protected] ********************************************************** Francisco J. Vilella, Ph.D. Unit Scientist and Professor of Wildlife Ecology USGS Biological Resources Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit MS 9691 Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture Mississippi State University Mississippi State, MS 39762 662-325-0784 (voice) 662-325-8726 (fax)
