We are seeking a highly motivated M.S. student for the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida, starting fall 2013. This student will work with Dr. Holly Ober and Dr. Bob McCleery to conduct research on the elusive Florida bonneted bat, Eumops floridanus. This species is believed to have the most limited geographic distribution of any bat in the U.S., and little is known about roosting or foraging ecology. The student will determine multi-scaled habitat selection patterns of the bonneted bat, estimate population demographics of bonneted bats at known roost sites, and develop monitoring protocols. The candidate must be willing to spend long periods of time in the field, working unusual hours as the biology of the species demands. Coursework will be taken in Gainesville and via distance courses during field seasons. Housing will be provided during field work. Preferred applicants will be highly motivated, independent, have field experience surveying bats through acoustic techniques and/or mist nets, have strong quantitative skills, and competitive GPA/GRE scores.
Required: B.S. in wildlife, ecology, natural resource conservation, or a related field; strong quantitative skills and demonstrated writing ability; competitive GPA and GRE scores (>1200 or 308) preferred. Applicants should be willing to work independently in the field and in inclement weather. Application procedure: If interested, send a cover letter briefly describing your research interests, career goals, and why you would like to pursue a graduate degree; CV; unofficial copies of GRE scores and academic transcripts; and name, phone number and email address of 3 references. There is no need to pursue the official application process through the university until candidate selection is complete. Benefits: tuition, stipend, health insurance, and field expenses will be provided August 2013-December 2015. Closing date: Review of applications will begin 1 May 2013. Candidate will be identified by 15 May 2013. Start date is 21 August 2013. For more information, contact Dr. Holly Ober, University of Florida; 850-875-7150; [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> (email preferred)
