University of Alaska seeks two MSc and/or PhD Candidates
in Marine Mammal Physiological Ecology
Anchorage, Alaska
The Department of Biological Sciences at University of Alaska Anchorage seeks
Masters of Science (MSc) and/or PhD candidates to work on a project examining
linkages between the timing of reproduction and molt in Weddell seals in
McMurdo Sound, Antarctica. The positions may begin either in fall 2013 or
spring 2014, and are based in Anchorage, Alaska. Details on the graduate
program at UAA and admission criteria can be found at
www.uaa.alaska.edu/biology<http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/biology> At a minimum,
students should have an undergraduate GPA of > 3.0, and have completed both the
general and subject (biology or equivalent) GRE test with an average score of >
70%. Admission deadline for Fall 2013 is March 1st.
The successful candidate(s) will be part of a team that is looking at the
relationship between reproductive timing, molt timing, pregnancy rates, and
condition in Weddell seals. One student will focus on the physiological factors
that impact molt timing and reproduction so experience with
biochemistry/molecular labwork is a plus. The second student will focus on dive
behavior and energetic models between the breeding period and molt, so
statistical and mathematical skills preferred. Student research projects will
reflect program needs, but will also be tailored to student interest. Example
projects include studying seasonal changes in reproductive hormones in relation
to molt status, animal condition, and activity budgets; developing tests to
determine pregnancy status; modeling the population level consequences of
differences in reproductive and molt timing; developing energetic models that
link behavior and physiological consequence; or others that relate to better
understanding variation in the timing of critical life history events. Results
from this research will contribute to an understanding of how energetically
expensive life history events such as reproduction and molt are regulated, and
how variation in phenology may influence demographic processes in Weddell
seals, and other high-latitude pinnipeds.
Preference will be given to highly motivated candidates with a Bachelor of
Science or Master of Science degree in biology or closely related field, who
have a strong academic record, and that enjoy working both in the laboratory
and field. Candidates must be physically fit, able to work long hours outdoors
in the cold, able to pass medical and dental screening criteria for long
deployments in remote field locations, and be the holder of a valid passport
(US or other). Prior laboratory and/or field research in physiological ecology
of mammals is a plus. The successful applicant will spend 2-4 months in the
field at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, each year. Student stipend and tuition
are provided for up to four years; students will be expected to work as a
teaching assistant for at least two semesters. The positions are open until
filled.
For further information, please contact Dr. Jennifer Burns
([email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>).
Dr. Jennifer M. Burns
Department of Biological Sciences, CPISB 202C
University of Alaska
Anchorage, AK 99508
907-786-1527
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