GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIP
A Ph.D. research assistantship is available for the coming fall 2016 semester in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture at Mississippi State University to study the critically endangered Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus venator) in the central mountain range (Cordillera Central) of Puerto Rico. The successful candidate will join a team of collaborators developing spatial, demographic and genetic tools to prevent the extinction of this endemic form of insular raptor. Results of this research will be linked to habitat and wildlife conservation strategies for the Cordillera Central of Puerto Rico. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to develop and acquire field techniques as well as advanced quantitative skills. QUALIFICATIONS: Completion of M.S. in zoology, ecology, conservation biology, wildlife management or related field. Upper percentile undergraduate and graduate course transcripts and GRE scores required. Applicants with knowledge of raptor survey techniques, climbing experience and radio telemetry are encouraged to apply. Field research will be conducted in forest reserves and private lands in the Cordillera Central of Puerto Rico. Fieldwork will require working in steep tropical montane areas. Applicants must be willing and able to work long hours in physically demanding conditions. The successful candidate will work with field technicians recruited from local universities in Puerto Rico. Working knowledge of Spanish desirable, but not required. SALARY: $22,800 plus insurance, tuition and fringe benefits APPLICATION: I will begin reviewing applications upon receipt; the desired start date is August 15, 2016. Send resume including copy of academic transcripts, GRE scores, and 3 references to Dr. Francisco J. Vilella at [email protected] or [email protected]
