MSc Graduate Research Assistantship in Wildlife and Movement Ecology Title: Animal movement and space use in managed landscapes
Project Description: I seek a highly motivated student for a 2-year MSc assistantship in wildlife ecology and movement ecology. The student will investigate the movement behavior and habitat selection trends of GPS collared feral pigs (Sus scrofa) in managed landscapes. The student will work in close collaboration with other students to capture and deploy GPS collars on live animals, and will likely cooperate with Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks personnel and local stakeholders. This project is in collaboration with another assessing the economic impact of feral pig damage to agricultural interests; however, this student will focus on the ecological factors driving feral pig movement and habitat selection across landscapes varying in landscape composition and configuration. This project is the first in a series intended to test general hypotheses relating animal movement and space use to distributions and population dynamics; to further our understanding of the basic ecology of feral pigs in the southeastern United States; and to provide practical tools and scientifically informed management targets for this species. The successful candidate will gain experience in wildlife, spatial, and movement ecology; capturing and collaring of live animals; manipulation and visualization of biotelemetry and remotely sensed data; and quantitative analyses of animal movement and habitat selection. The candidate will also be required to develop peer-reviewed manuscripts related to their research focus. Compensation: A stipend for living expenses will be provided ($16500 per year), as well as full tuition and health insurance. Beginning Date: January 7, 2016 Closing Date: Open until an appropriate candidate has been identified (NOTE: The last date to apply to MSU's graduate school is November 1) Minimum Qualifications: An undergraduate degree in ecology, wildlife management, biology, or a related discipline is required. The successful candidate must be capable of working in the field under strenuous conditions for extended periods (i.e., hot and humid conditions, exposure to biting and stinging insects, exposure to poison ivy, etc.). Minimum 3.25 GPA and 150 GRE. Preferred Qualifications: Demonstrated capacity to work in a collaborative capacity and in strenuous field conditions. IACUC training and experience with telemetry data strongly preferred. Familiarity with programming (e.g., Program R, Python) and GIS software (e.g., ArcMap) highly desired but training can be provided. GPA > 3.5, and GRE scores in Quantitative >= 160 and Analytical Writing >= 4. Application: To apply, please send the following items: 1) Cover letter describing credentials and professional goals; 2) a resume/CV; 3) a list of references; and 4) unofficial copies of all university transcripts and GRE/TOEFL scores. (NOTE: Formal application to MSU, including official transcripts and GRE, is required subsequent to selection of a successful candidate. The last date to apply to MSU’s graduate school is November 1.) Send all application materials to: [email protected] Garrett M. Street Assistant Professor of Wildlife and Landscape Agroecology Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture Mississippi State University Mississippi State University is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer
