We are looking for an exceptional Ph.D. student to build on our research program in Swaziland and South Africa (Kruger Park). We have been examining the influences of the agricultural landscape mosaic and disturbance regimes (grazing, fire, elephants) on the diversity, density, genetics, diseases and movements of wildlife. Specifically, we would like a student to develop a project to better understand how landscape patterns and disturbance gradients alter wildlife communities and their ecosystem services, with a potential focus on bird communities. This project can take many potential forms and will be a collaborative effort with researchers at University of Florida, OTS (Organization for Tropical Studies) and the University of Swaziland. Potential mentors at the University of Florida are from the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation and include Drs. McCleery (wildlife ecology; http://www.wec.ufl.edu/faculty/mccleery/), Fletcher (quantitative landscape ecology, avian ecology; http://plaza.ufl.edu/robert.fletcher/), Austin (conservation genetics; http://plaza.ufl.edu/austinj/Austin_Lab/Welcome.html), and Wisely (http://www.wec.ufl.edu/faculty/wiselys/). This position will require students to conduct research in Southern Africa for extended periods of time. This is an extraordinarily challenging and rewarding commitment that should not be taken lightly.
We are looking for a self-motivated independent student with a previous record of academic achievement and field experience in remote locations. Applicants must have completed or be in the process of finishing a M.S. Degree. Applicants must also have a minimum 3.5 grade point average, greater than 1250 on the GRE (312 on new scale), and considerable field experience. To apply, send a resume including GRE scores and GPA, a brief explanation how you are prepared for PhD program and over-seas research, and a list of 3 references to Dr. Robert McCleery [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> by May 15th. We will begin reviewing applications as they come in. --------------------------------------------------------------- Robert Fletcher Assistant Professor Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation 318 Newins-Ziegler Hall University of Florida/IFAS Gainesville, FL 32611 Phone: 352-846-0632 E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://plaza.ufl.edu/robert.fletcher/
