M.S. Opportunity: Control and Ecological Effects of Invasive Woody Plants I am seeking a motivated M.S. student to become part of an NSF- and Purdue University-funded project that examines the effectiveness of different techniques in the control of woody invasive shrubs. The student will work with university faculty and a private biotech firm to field-test new enzymatic herbicide options for the control of woody vegetation. The student will also examine plant community response to chemical and mechanical treatment of invasive shrubs.
The position is budgeted for two years beginning in the spring semester of 2019 and includes a graduate stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance. Applicants should have a GPA of 3.2 or greater and have taken the GRE. Desired qualifications: an undergraduate degree in botany, ecology, forestry, plant science, or a related field, experience conducting field research, and interest in the biology and control of invasive plants. To apply: Prospective applicants should send via e-mail a brief letter of interest, CV (including GPA, GRE scores, and contact information for three references), and unofficial transcripts to Mike Jenkins (jenki...@purdue.edu). I will begin reviewing application materials immediately and the successful student will apply to the graduate program of Purdue University by September 15, 2018. Women and under-represented minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. Purdue University is an equal-opportunity affirmative-action employer. About Purdue: Purdue is a land-grant university of over 40,000 students and is ranked the 5th best public university in the U.S. by The Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education. Located in West Lafayette, Indiana, Purdue is an easy drive from Indianapolis and Chicago. The Department of Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) is housed administratively in the College of Agriculture (#8 world ranking); emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches across a broad spectrum of natural resource sciences; and offers vibrant, nationally ranked graduate programs in ecology, forestry, and wildlife. The West Lafayette-Lafayette area is home to a diverse community of 174,000, with good schools, safe neighborhoods, over 40 parks and extensive trail systems, active farmers’ markets, and year-round community festivals and art events.
