*Two PhD Positions Available (University of Wisconsin-Madison)*
We are offering two PhD positions in the Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Both positions cover a 4-year PhD assistantship scheduled to begin in the fall of 2015. Position A: This student will lead the use of remote sensing technologies to identify the spatiotemporal characteristics and environmental drivers of masting in conifer forest ecosystems. We are interested in exploring the link between masting and bird populations, although the focus is on remote sensing of forest ecosystem dynamics. The preferred candidate will have a strong background in the use of GIS and/or remote sensing in addressing ecological questions and a broader interest in population biology, species distribution, and wildlife dynamics. Position B: This student will pursue the analysis of an extensive network of camera traps for modeling the dynamic distributions of wildlife throughout Wisconsin. The student’s dissertation will involve integrating camera trap data, existing remote sensing imagery, climate and weather data, and citizen science databases to develop species distribution models for state-wide population estimates. The preferred candidate will have a strong interest in occupancy modeling and/or statistics, GIS and/or remote sensing, population dynamics, and natural resource management. Applicants must have a MS degree in geography, forestry, wildlife, ecology or other related discipline. Applicants with a BS degree will only be considered if substantial relevant experience can be shown. For both positions, a solid working knowledge of population ecology, GIS or remote sensing, and statistics are required. Although not a requirement, the preferred candidate should have experience in spatial statistics and modeling. Applicants with strong quantitative and modeling skills will be given preference. Excellent English writing and verbal communication skills are essential. These will be collaborative projects involving the Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology and the Wisconsin DNR. The students will be advised by Drs. Benjamin Zuckerberg (http://goo.gl/32IfVM) and Phil Townsend (http://goo.gl/m5z0Ch). Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, but applications received before February 25th will be given full consideration. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. The position is open to both US citizen and international candidates. Current annual stipend levels are $21,224 per year before taxes, plus tuition remission and health care benefits. A start date of September 2015 is envisioned. Interested applicants are asked to e-mail the documents listed below to our Student Services Coordinator Sara Rodock ([email protected]) (in ONE PDF file please). 1) Our departmental graduate application cover sheet ( http://go.wisc.edu/oxbq0b) 2) Letter outlining research interests, academic and professional backgrounds. In your cover letter, please specify which project you are applying for. 3) Resume or CV 4) Copies of transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable at this point) 5) GRE scores 6) Names and contact addresses of three references Questions should be directed to Drs. Zuckerberg ([email protected]) and Townsend ([email protected]).
