A PhD assistantship is available in the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management at Iowa State University. The goal of the project is to use genetic tools to characterize white-tailed deer population structure with the objective of addressing the potential for transmission and spread of diseases such as chronic wasting disease. A second objective is to describe impacts of deer restoration efforts during the early 20th century on contemporary population structure. Opportunities exist to pursue additional research question(s) related to disease ecology or genetics depending on the student’s interests.
A M.S. in wildlife ecology, genetics, or a related field is desirable. Preference will be given to applicants with prior research experience using genetic techniques. Contact Dr. Julie Blanchong, [email protected], with a letter of interest, cumulative GPA, GRE scores, description of any previous research experience, and contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable applicant is found. The project can begin as early as January, 2011. The candidate selected will be provided with an assistantship that includes a tuition waiver, an initial stipend of $19,059 per year, and health care benefits.
