Graduate Research Assistantship (PhD) Michigan State University Program: Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior Program // Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Keywords: Community Ecology, Trophic interactions, Non-consumptive predator effects, Animal Behavior, Phenotypic Plasticity, Fish, Invertebrates
PhD positions: We seek an applicant that is interested in studying community and aquatic ecology starting in Fall 2012, Jan 2013 or spring field season 2013. We currently have funding for students to join a research effort examining non-consumptive effects (also called trait-mediated effects) of predators (fish and invertebrates) on zooplankton communities in Michigan ponds and lakes. Potential projects include examining predator-induced effects on zooplankton phenotype (including behavior) and how these induced effects influence zooplankton population and community dynamics. The project addresses basic science questions concerning community ecology, and implications for fish management. While particular PhD projects are flexible within the scope of the overall project, the positions could include integration of field, mesocosm and laboratory studies. We encourage research projects that include ecological a theory /modeling component. Collaborators include Scott Peacor, Brian Roth, Ace Sarnelle and Earl Werner. Stipends are competitive based on qualifications, and health and tuition waiver benefits are included. Applications will be evaluated as received and considered until position filled. 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 just to inquire about position, please include (1) above
