I am seeking applicants for an M.S. position focused on evaluating the demographics of ruffed grouse in Maine. Our objectives for this project are to better characterize how forest management practices, forest habitat composition, and sport hunting influence variation in grouse survival and reproductive success. We will use a combination of mark-recapture, radio telemetry, and forest vegetation assessments to address these objectives. This project is a close collaboration with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW), and the successful applicant will work closely with MDIFW biologists and 1 other M.S. student. Field work will occur at two field sites, and each student will be responsible for supervising field operations at one of these two sites. Data collection protocols will be similar among sites, and all project data will be shared and available for the purpose of developing and addressing distinct research questions in support of each student’s graduate thesis.
The start date for this position is no later than September 1, 2014, with an earlier start date possible. The student will be supported primarily through a funded research assistantship, but may be required to serve as a teaching assistant for 1 or 2 semesters. Successful applicants will be expected to apply to the Graduate School at the University of Maine, and the student will be a member of the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation Biology at the University of Maine. More information on the graduate program in our department can be found online at http://umaine.edu/wle/graduate-program/. Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree from a Wildlife Ecology, Biology, Natural Resource, or related program. A positive attitude and the ability to supervise a field crew in a remote setting is a must. The ability to tolerate less-than-pleasant field conditions, which include muggy buggy summers and cold snowy winters, is also mandatory. Must be physically fit and capable of hiking long distances in dense eastern forest habitat. Strong oral and written communication skills, experience with field work, and strong recommendations are required. Must possess a valid driver’s license. A strong academic record including undergraduate GPA (3.0 or better) and GRE scores (50% percentile or higher), plus relevant prior field experience, is desired. Desired qualifications: Preference will be given to applicants with experience working in in forest communities and with knowledge of forest ecology. Prior experience with the following field skills are desirable: radio telemetry, avian capture and handling, vegetation sampling and identification of eastern forest plants, use of 4x4 vehicles, snowmobile or ATV operation, supervision of field crews. Any relevant experience with data analysis and/or scientific writing is also a plus. To apply please submit the following by email to Dr. Erik Blomberg ( [email protected]): Cover letter describing your qualifications for the position, CV/Resume including GRE scores and undergraduate GPA, and contact information for at least three professional references. A single merged document is preferred. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
