PhD Opportunity Supervisors : Dennis Murray (Trent University : http://www.dennismurray.ca) Gabriel Blouin-Demers (University of Ottawa : http://mysite.science.uottawa.ca/gblouin)
Project : Spatial ecology and ecophysiology of Blandings turtles near Ottawa, Ontario We are initiating a PhD project on the spatial ecology and ecophysiology of Blandings turtles within the city limits of Ottawa, Ontario. Blandings turtles are at their northern limit in southern Ontario, which presents interesting challenges to turtle ecology, behaviour and population dynamics. Using VHF and GPS telemetry, accelerometry, and temperature logging, the student will monitor turtles in the field and develop bioenergetics models describing factors limiting survival and productivity in a northern environment. Because Blandings are listed as Threatened in Ontario, the work also has important conservation implications and there is an applied component that is mandated by the research contract. Specifically, the work will document spatial ecology and habitat use of turtles within the semi-urban setting and relative to rapid residential development; we will test the efficacy of mitigation such as road underpasses and fences on turtle survival. The PhD student will have the opportunity to develop additional research questions within the scope of the broader project. The funding package includes a competitive stipend, foreign tuition waiver (if the student is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident) as well as coverage of field-related travel and other expenses. Successful candidates will have an MSc in Ecology, Conservation, or related field, demonstrated evidence of peer-reviewed publications, strong field skills, and an interest in working collaboratively in a large and diverse research group. Additional desirable skills include turtle research experience, GPS telemetry data analysis, and communication with stakeholders. To apply, please send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, unofficial academic transcript, and contact information for 3 references to Dennis Murray (dennismur...@trentu.ca). The successful candidate should begin enrolment at Trent University by January 2017, and we will accept applications until a suitable candidate is found, so apply early.
