M.S. Position Field ornithology/population ecology: Understanding sources of variation in detectability of golden-cheeked warblers
Position Description: This position provides a student interested in behavior and population ecology the opportunity to gain expertise in both field and statistical components of population monitoring. The candidate will be part of a study team that addresses the efficiency, reliability, and assumptions of alternative population monitoring and population estimation techniques for the endemic and endangered golden-cheeked warbler (GCW) in the Texas Hill Country. The candidate will be responsible for a project based in the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve near Austin, Texas, that seeks (a) to investigate how detection probability varies across the breeding season both within and among populations; and (b) to investigate the role of conspecific density in influencing variation in detectability. The position starts January 2009. Funding for this project is provided by a renewable 9-mo. teaching assistantship at $10,152 plus benefits augmented by 3- mo. summer salary at $1,300/month. The Department of Biology offers a strong environment in population ecology, population biology, wildlife, and conservation biology. Candidates are invited to apply to the MS program in Population and Conservation Biology (http://pop.bio.txstate.edu/index.html) or the MS program in Wildlife Biology (http://www.bio.txstate.edu/%7ewlbio/) Qualifications: Requirements include an interest in population and field ecology and the physical stamina to traverse rugged forested terrain. Preference will be given to candidates with field ornithology experience. A B.S. degree in biology, wildlife, conservation science, or a closely related field is required. Use of own vehicle to travel to field sites is needed (mileage reimbursed). Interested persons should contact Jim Ott (512-245-2321) or Butch Weckerly (512-245-3353) by phone. To apply please send a statement of interest, CV, relevant coursework, GPA, and GRE to [EMAIL PROTECTED] . Reference letters for top candidates will be solicited at a later date. Deadline: Dec. 1. Applications will be reviewed as they come in. A fuller description of the research program and further information about our teams research on GCW monitoring and population trend analysis are available by emailing [EMAIL PROTECTED]
