The Weed and Invasive Plant Ecology and Management Group at the Department
of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences, Montana State University,
Bozeman is seeking applicants to fill one Ph.D. and two M.S. Graduate
Research Assistantships. Information about the Weed and Invasive Plant
Ecology and Management Group can be found at
http://weedeco.msu.montana.edu.
1)Ph.D. Molecular, physiological, and ecological characterization of
herbicide resistance. This laboratory, greenhouse and field study will 1)
Investigate the resistance spectrum, metabolism patterns, molecular
biology, and genetics of multiple resistance, 2) Compare the impacts of
environmental and biological stressors on the demography, ecological
fitness, and primary physiology of herbicide resistance, and 3) Refine
simulation models to assess herbicide resistance phenotype frequency,
dynamics, and spread.
2)M.S. Impact of targeted sheep herbivory on insect and plant
communities. The successful candidate will assess insect (Carabid beetle
and pea aphids) and plant communities responses to targeted domestic sheep
grazing. This study will be conducted in both annual and perennial
cropping systems and rangelands and involves frequent and overnight travel
to and from research sites within Montana.
3)M.S. Multi-trophic interactions between spotted knapweed and
insects. This project investigates effects of spotted knapweed and its
associated biological control agents on native plant community dynamics
using a network approach to assess multi-trophic pollinator, herbivore and
parasitoid interactions. We will 1) Assess the effects of spotted
knapweed on community-level pollination patterns and 2) Determine the
effects of spotted knapweed and its biocontrols and associated parasitoids
on native plant reproduction.
Qualifications sought. Candidates must hold a BS or MS degree in ecology,
weed science, plant science, or related field. Excellent work ethic, team
player, and proficiency in English language (written and oral) are
required.
Submit 1) letter of application describing career goals and research
interests, 2) resume, transcripts, and 3) names, addresses, phone numbers
and email addresses of three references. GRE and TOEFL scores (if
required) are mandatory. Electronic applications are accepted.
Applications should be sent to:
1) Ph.D. Molecular, physiological, and ecological characterization of
herbicide resistance. Dr. Fabian Menalled. [email protected]. (406) 994-
4783 or Dr. Bill Dyer [email protected] (406) 994-5063.
2) M.S. Impact of targeted sheep herbivory on insect and plant
communities. Dr. Fabian Menalled. [email protected]. (406) 994-4783.
3) M.S. Multi-trophic interactions between spotted knapweed and
insects. Dr. Jane Mangold. [email protected]. (406) 994-5513
MSU is located in Bozeman, an extended community of about 70,000 nestled
in the Rocky Mountains, 90 miles north of Yellowstone National Park.
Bozeman is renowned for year-round recreational and cultural opportunities
to include access to world class ski areas, multiple blue ribbon trout
streams, and the Gallatin National Forest. Bozeman boasts high-quality
medical facilities, a very low crime rate, many fine restaurants,
acclaimed public and private schools, a symphony orchestra and choir, an
annual opera, and nationally known events. The K-12 educational system,
growing reputation of MSU, and pristine natural environment make Bozeman
one of America's most desirable university towns.
