Ph.D. position in landscape ecology and species distribution modeling I am seeking a highly motivated student to pursue a Ph.D. focusing on landscape ecology and species distribution modeling in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. The successful student will work with landscape ecologists and economists on a NSF-funded project to develop, test, and apply tools for managing conservation risk associated with climate uncertainty. The successful student will: (1) help to construct spatial datasets for spatial portfolio analysis, which aims to allocate conservation investments between different parts of a conservation planning area to reduce future conservation risk from climate change by spreading conservation lands strategically between multiple areas; and (2) perform research to address how non-climate factors (e.g., land use, geomorphic factors, dispersal) affect species distributions. The ideal candidate will possess a Master’s degree by the starting date and prior research experience and/or demonstrated competency in spatial analysis. Applicants should also have strong quantitative skills, and an interest in landscape ecology and species distribution modeling. Experience with statistical analyses in R and remote sensing image processing are desirable, but not necessary. Strong writing skills, the ability to communicate effectively, and the desire to work in a team are also essential.
The assistantship will have a duration of three years starting in August 2014 or January 2015, and includes a stipend of $21,000 per annum, fringe benefits and tuition waiver. The university is an AA/EEO employer and encourages applications from women and minorities. To apply, please email the following to Jennifer Fraterrigo (j...@illinois.edu): (1) a cover letter describing your research interests, goals and relevant experience, (2) a complete CV, (3) unofficial college transcripts and GRE scores/percentiles, and (4) contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin immediately, and the positions will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. After selection, the successful candidate will apply to be admitted to the Graduate College of the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign; detailed information about the application procedure is available online at http://www.grad.illinois.edu/admissions. Please contact Dr. Fraterrigo by e-mail or phone with any questions. Dr. Jennifer M. Fraterrigo, Assistant Professor University of Illinois, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences W-423 Turner Hall, 1102 S. Goodwin Ave. Urbana, Illinois 61801 (217) 333-9428 (office) http://landscape.nres.uiuc.edu
