The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) is seeking applicants for a fully-funded MS project to study moose behavior. This study is part of a larger research project that addresses the physiological and behavioral responses of free-ranging moose to ambient temperatures in Minnesota, USA. The MS student will conduct an observational study of captive moose at the Kenai Moose Research Center (MRC) in Alaska to validate internal body temperature measurements taken by implant transmitters against a range of observed behaviors (e.g., drinking, resting, feeding, and running). The student will also have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing research aimed at understanding how ambient temperature affects the physiology and behavior of moose in the wild.
The student will be enrolled in the Natural Resources Science and Management program at the University of Minnesota (http://www.nrsm.umn.edu/) and will be housed on the St. Paul campus. The student will have a chance to interact with graduate students and faculty at the University, and will also spend considerable time working with Dr. Véronique St-Louis (Wildlife Biometrician), the student’s main advisor, and Dr. Michelle Carstensen (Wildlife Health Program Supervisor) at the MNDNR office in Forest Lake, MN. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated interest in wildlife health issues, a strong quantitative background (computer modeling, statistics), field experience, excellent interpersonal and writing skills, and will need to commit to spending four, two-week time periods at the MRC in Alaska. Candidates who also have experience in observational studies of animal behavior as well as field experience in remote locations will be preferred. The successful candidates will be expected to undergo firearm safety training prior to beginning the field work. To apply, interested candidates must create a single pdf that includes (1) a brief letter of intent describing how they meet the qualifications listed above, (2) a CV, (3) undergraduate transcripts, and (4) GRE scores. All applications should be sent to Dr. Véronique St-Louis (veronique.st-lo...@state.mn.us). Review of the applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. However, no applications will be accepted after 30 September 2015. The MS student will start on January 2015. The start date is non-negotiable due to the timing of the field season and availability of funding. For further information, please contact Dr. St-Louis or Dr. Carstensen (michelle.carsten...@state.mn.us).
