I am seeking two graduate students (PhD preferred, MS also considered) to participate in multiple funded projects (NSF, US Fish and Wildlife, and US Forest Service) on the evolutionary ecology, and conservation of freshwater fishes. Students will develop a thesis/dissertation that builds on existing datasets and ongoing projects involving hybrid zone dynamics in the Fundulus notatus species complex, freshwater fish assemblages in MS, and the distribution and ecology of the Pearl and Bayou Darters. In addition to traditional lab facilities, students will have access to a large ichthyological collection (>55,000 lots), 3,000 sq ft wetlab facility, an array of experimental streams, and a new high performance computing cluster for genomics work. Depending on the student’s interests and background, additional related studies will be developed, taking full advantage of the numerous opportunities available. A start date of January 2019 is anticipated, but a summer 2019 start may also be acceptable.
Applicants must have a BS or MS in ecology/environmental biology, zoology, wildlife biology, or other relevant areas. GPA and GRE scores must be competitive for admission to the graduate program. Prior experience sampling and identifying freshwater fishes is required. Willingness and ability to work independently under potentially challenging field conditions is a must. Review of applications will begin immediately, and continue until the position is filled. For additional information about the position, contact Jake Schaefer (jake.schae...@usm.edu).
