A Masters of Science research assistantship will be available at
Clemson University to study quantifying population size, species
diversity, and community level responses of small mammals to
experimentally altered oak forests in the Hudson Valley of New York.
Sudden oak death (SOD), a fungal pathogen, is expected to infect oak
forests throughout the east coast of the United States and this study
which began in 2008, examines the population ecology and feeding
ecology of small mammals in response to SOD. Field research will
continue this summer and the project will focus on analyzing the
population dynamics, species interactions, and community level
responses of small mammals in NY. The project will involve fieldwork
in NY during the summer of 2012 and data analysis of 2008-2012 data
will begin in Fall 2012 (at Clemson University, South Carolina).
Research will focus on using tools such as Program MARK and PRESENCE
to develop population estimates and occupancy models for small mammal
populations.
Stipend/Salary:
Current annual stipend levels for graduate students at Clemson
University are $14,000 per year before taxes. Students must serve as a
teaching assistant each semester. In addition to the stipend, students
have health insurance and tuition remission. A start date of Summer
2012 at the latest is strongly preferred.
Qualifications:
A BS in zoology, biology, ecology, conservation biology, forestry,
wildlife ecology, or other related disciplines is required. Applicants
with a BA degree will only be considered if substantial relevant
experience can be shown. Prior research experience is required
including both substantial field experiences. Especially desirable are
applicants with previous experience conducting mark-recapture
population modeling and stable isotope biogeochemistry. Experience
with developing field-based projects is preferred.
Application Process:
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and review will continue
until candidates are chosen. Applications received before April 15th
2012 are guaranteed consideration. Clemson University is an equal
opportunity/affirmative action employer. We promote excellence through
diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.
Interested applicants are asked to e-mail the following documents
listed below to Dr. Kate McFadden (in ONE PDF file please-
k...@clemson.edu). Please specify in your letter when you would be
available to start.
Required Documents:
1. Cover letter outlining research interests, academic and
professional backgrounds
2. Resume/CV
3. Copies of transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable at this point)
4. GRE scores if available
5. Reprints if available
6. Names, email, phone number, and contact addresses of three references
--
Kate McFadden, Ph.D.
G27 Lehotsky Hall
School of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Science
Clemson University
Clemson, South Carolina
Office: (864) 656-4141
