How does spatial isolation interact with infectious disease to drive the population dynamics of endangered amphibians?
The Johnson Laboratory (http://www.johnsonlaboratory.com) is accepting a qualified undergraduate NSF REU applicant for our field crew in the Bay Area of California beginning in May 13-14 and concluding near the end of July to early August 2018. Project details: This investigation will rely on the use of non-lethal swabbing methods (skin and buccal swabs) to obtain samples from two threatened amphibian species (California Red Legged frog, Rana draytonii, and the California Tiger Salamander, Ambystoma californiense) across the Bay Area of California that can be tested to assess population genetic structure and the presence of pathogens (e.g., Ranavirus and Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis). Such lines of inquiry will provide insights directly relevant to the conservation of these threatened species, particularly with respect to the degree of genetic mixing among populations, quantify degree of isolation across populations and the effects of population connectivity on infection patterns. The selected student will gain valuable experience in field sampling, swab collection, genetic techniques, and data analysis. The primary responsibilities of the student will be to collect non- lethal swabs from amphibian species while being a member of a larger team performing in-depth field sampling protocols. Field sampling will focus on amphibians, fish and invertebrates within California pond ecosystems. This will include performing additional field sampling techniques including but not limited to: dipnets, seines, visual surveys, snail parasite identification, and pathogen swabbing. In addition, this individual will be expected to assist with daily record keeping and equipment maintenance while staying at a University of California Reserve System field station located in the South Bay, Blue Oak Ranch Reserve ( http://blueoakranchreserve.net ). ONLY undergraduates that will be continuing their education in fall 2018 can apply. To apply for our Undergraduate REU position send an application package that should include (1) a brief (<1 page) statement of interest detailing how this opportunity would advance your educational goals; (2) a description of previous research and course-related experiences; (3) transcript; (4) current CV. Please compile the application package into a single PDF and email to dana.calh...@colorado.edu with the position title (REU application) in the subject line by February 12th, 2018.
