Two graduate assistantships (MS or PhD) are available in the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management at Iowa State University to investigate white-tailed deer ecology starting January or May 2015.
Position 1: Landscape composition and antler characteristics The student will work to identify factors associated with spatial and temporal variation in antler morphometrics in white-tailed deer. The student will investigate spatial and temporal trends in high-scoring deer from Iowa using historical records. The student will also be responsible for designing a study to collect morphometric data from harvested male deer and identify relationships between landscape features (primarily using GIS) and antler morphometrics. There is also the opportunity to investigate associations between genetic characteristics and antler morphometrics. Position 2: Factors affecting fawn survival The student will work to identify factors affecting survival of white-tailed deer fawns in the agriculture-intensive landscape of Iowa. The student will be responsible for coordinating and conducting fieldwork associated with capturing and monitoring fawns and then using these data to identify factors associated with fawn survival. The opportunity to incorporate a genetic or disease component into the project is also possible. Candidates should have a BS in wildlife ecology or a closely related field. A Masters degree in a natural resource field is preferred for those interested in a PhD position. Good organizational skills, strong attention to detail, and excellent communication skills are necessary. Experience with GIS is also desirable. Applicants should have a GPA ≥3.0 and GRE scores ≥50th percentile. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record. Interested applicants should contact Dr. Julie Blanchong by email ([email protected]) with a letter of interest, CV including cumulative GPA and GRE scores (include percentiles), unofficial transcripts, a description previous research experience, and telephone and email contact information for three references by November 7, 2014.
