Graduate Research Assistantships (PhD) Michigan State University Program: Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior Program // Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Topics: Community Ecology, Trophic interactions, Non-consumptive predator effects, Animal Behavior, Phenotypic Plasticity
PhD positions: We seek applicants who are interested in studying community and aquatic ecology starting in Fall 2012. We currently have funding for students to join a research effort examining non-consumptive effects (also called trait-mediated effects) of predators on zooplankton communities in Michigan ponds. Potential projects include examining predator-induced effects on zooplankton phenotype (including behavior) and how these induced effects influence zooplankton population and community dynamics. While particular PhD projects are flexible within the scope of the overall project, the positions could include integration of field, laboratory and ecological modeling. One of the positions will be given to a student interested in their research including ecological theory /modeling. Collaborators include Scott Peacor, Brian Roth, Ace Sarnelle and Earl Werner. For an example of related work, see the paper: Peacor et al. 2012. Proceedings of the Royal Society B 279:122-128. Stipends are competitive based on qualifications, and health and tuition waiver benefits are included. Position is open until filled. Applications will be evaluated as received with an initial goal to select candidates before the end of the year. Later applicants may be considered. To apply, please send an email with “assistantship” in the subject line to Scott Peacor (pea...@msu.edu). Please include: (1)* CV/resume. Include GPA and GRE scores, and list of 3 references. (2) Cover letter describing general and specific research interests/experiences, brief statement of professional goals (e.g., plans after finishing the graduate training), (3) Transcripts (don't need to be official), or list of relevant courses (including math/physical sciences/modeling/statistics). *If emailing to inquire about position, please include (1) above
