GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP (Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior) – at Boise State University. A position is available for a Ph.D. student to scale-up mechanisms and consequences of plant-herbivore interactions from genes to organisms to populations. This multidisciplinary project will identify genetic, physiological and behavioral mechanisms of tolerance to plant phenotypes (phenology, nutrients, chemical defenses) in herbivores to explain population dynamics in arctic systems. The Ph.D. student will work as part of our collaborative team that includes, but is not limited to, the Norwegian Polar Institute, Icelandic Institute of Natural History, University Centre in Svalbard, University of Iceland, University of Tromsø, and Peregrine Fund. The student will participate in: 1) field work that involves remote sensing, behavioral observations of ptarmigan and reindeer, and collection of samples in established field stations in Norway, Iceland, and/or Alaska (30-40% of data collection) and 2) laboratory work that involves genetic and chemical assays and processing of remotely sensed data (60-70% of data collection) at Boise State University. Training for both field and laboratory activities will be provided by team members who offer expertise in ecology, physiology, genetics, chemistry, and remote sensing to provide the student with diverse skills sets and scientific networks to prepare them for broad career opportunities.
*Qualifications* We are seeking someone who has: 1) strong writing and quantitative skills; 2) analytical laboratory experience; and 3) experience working in cold climates. Competitive students will have: 1) a Master’s degree; 2) foundational knowledge in population ecology and interest in the genetic, physiological, and behavioral mechanisms driving observed population patterns of animals; and 3) direct experience conducting biochemical and molecular assays or demonstrated excellence in a breadth of chemistry and molecular coursework. Please address your qualification for each of these points in your cover letter. The position starts Fall (August) 2018. *Stipend and Tuition and Fees *This position includes support in the form of a graduate assistantships (renewable, 12-month at $25,000), tuition and fee waiver, and health insurance. *About the program and Boise* The Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior PhD is a new and modern graduate program at Boise State University. This program brings together faculty from across multiple academic departments including biological sciences, geosciences, anthropology, and the human-environment systems group to offer relevant courses and provide unique mentorship and training opportunities. Further, we have created a network of valuable connections in academia, local relationships with federal and state agencies, nonprofits and NGOs, as well as partnerships with international organizations all dedicated to providing students with transformative research and educational experiences for diverse career opportunities. To learn more, please visit: http://eeb.boisestate.edu/. Students in this program enjoy living in the beautiful city of Boise, which strikes a perfect balance with close-by outdoor recreational activities as well as a vibrant downtown life. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and the capital of the State of Idaho, Boise is frequently featured as a top-ranked metropolis. The city has ample opportunities for world-class outdoor activities year round and a thriving arts and entertainment culture. In 2017, US News and World report ranked Boise the 12th best city to live in the United States. To learn more, please view “Visit Boise” link at: https://www.cityofboise.org/ *To Apply* Please send via email in a *single file attachment* (include your last name in the file name): 1) a cover letter that states qualifications and career goals; 2) a CV with the names and contacts for 3 references (they do not need to provide a letter of recommendation at this time); 3) copies of transcripts (unofficial are O.K.); and 4) GRE scores and percentiles (not combined) to Dr. Jennifer Forbey (email: [email protected]). *Please put “PhD application” in the subject line*. Applications will be reviewed as they are received *until 1st of December 2017*. If you do not have GRE scores by this deadline your application cannot be considered. Top candidates will be interviewed in early December and asked to formally apply to Boise State’s EEB program by 20th of January 2018. All admission decisions must be approved by the Graduate Dean. Boise State University embraces and welcomes diversity in its faculty, student body, and staff. Accordingly, applicants who would add to the diversity and excellence of our academic community are encouraged to apply.
