Graduate Assistantship: Effect of Vegetation Manipulation on Wyoming Toad Growth Rate, Size and Recruitment (MS)
The Wyoming toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) is a critically endangered species that is endemic to the Laramie Basin, Wyoming. The species was historically abundant throughout its range but began declining in the 1970’s until the last known individuals were brought into captivity in the 1990’s to establish a captive breeding program. Individuals from the captive breeding program have been reintroduced into the wild but self-sustaining populations have not yet been established. One potential limitation to Wyoming toad recovery is habitat conditions at the primary reintroduction site. The graduate student will test the effects of habitat manipulation (fire, grazing, mechanical)on toad survival, growth and disease susceptibility. Prospective students with a background in wildlife, rangeland management, ecology, and/or spatial analysis are encouraged to apply. Evidence of strong work ethic, robust analytical skills, scientific writing, passion for scientific inquiry, ability to work under harsh field conditions and aptitude for collaborative research on a highly endangered species. Position start date: May 15, 2014 (may be negotiable for the right candidate). Research GA is in place May 15, 2014 - May 10 2015 (potential for renewal based on funding availability and GA performance). GA is expected to devote full time to scholarly activities during tenure. To apply, please send a statement of interest, complete CV, unofficial transcripts, unofficial GRE scores, and contact information for three professional references as a single PDF file to [email protected] with the subject line "Wyoming Toad GA". Priority will be given to applications received by April 20, 2014. Review of applications will begin immediately and an offer may be made before the deadline. Requirements: Priority will be given to candidates with GRE 305 (verbal + quantitative – or equivalent 1200 on old system), GPA 3.3 (BS)/ 3.5 (MS). Students with GRE 309+ may qualify for a fellowship enhancement. Successful applicant must be qualified to drive a federal vehicle My spatial ecology and landscape genetics research group is focused on understanding fine-scale distribution and functional connectivity of animal species in ecological systems. University of Wyoming is ideally located in Laramie, Wyoming with easy access to varied field sites and outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition, the campus is only 1 hour from Fort Collins and 2 hours from Denver, CO. Additional Information: For additional information on the Murphy lab, please see: https://sites.google.com/site/murphylabuwyo. This research is in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
