Apply by: 11/29/2024 Start date: 1/13/2025 or before Salary: start at $27,000
Project description: We are seeking a M.S. OR PhD student to work on a research project to determine the diversity of pollinators found within row crop rotations in the Midwest (corn-soybean) compared to alternative rotations that include a third crop (e.g., pea, sunflowers). This project is being funded by the Iowa Soybean Association to understand what pollinators are found in fields and how communities change based on edge-of-field practices and within-field management. Consequently, this study will determine diversity and visitation of pollinators in different crop rotations. Additionally, the student will lead a literature review to identify pollinators found within corn and soybean fields across the Midwest to support field observations. The student will enroll in either the Wildlife Ecology program in the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management or the Entomology program in the Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology, and Microbiology at Iowa State University. Duties: The student will conduct fieldwork, run statistical analyses, and interpret and communicate results to meet project objectives. They will also be expected to develop additional research questions within their expertise. Fieldwork will take place in Iowa from May-August 2025-2027. The student will collect pollinator (bees, hoverfly, and butterfly) data using a variety of techniques (line transects, trapping, bioacoustics), along with site information which will include plant identification. Academic responsibilities will include taking classes and writing a dissertation based on research findings. Qualifications: B.S. or M.S. in Entomology, Wildlife Sciences, Biology, Ecology, or a related field with an undergraduate and graduate GPA ≥ 3.0. An ideal candidate has a positive attitude, inclusive mindset, good organizational skills, attention to detail, strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work well both independently and on a team. Applicants with experience with pollinator survey methods and quantitative methods will be most competitive. Applicants from underrepresented and historically excluded groups are encouraged to apply. GRE scores are not required. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license (or ability to get one) and a clean driving record. Funding: The student will be supported by a research assistantship with a stipend of approximately $27,000 per year. Benefits include health insurance and a tuition waiver. To apply: Please apply by completing this form: https://forms.gle/ZXMnGstVE8E5ArGB6. You will need to upload a single pdf document containing 1) a one-page cover letter describing your background, interest in this position, and career goals; 2) your CV or resume; 3) unofficial transcripts; and 4) contact information for three professional references. Contact Dr. Katherine Kral-O’Brien (kra...@iastate.edu) with questions. [A qr code with a dinosaur Description automatically generated] Katherine Kral-O'Brien, PhD Assistant Professor Pollinator Ecology and Conservation Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management she/her [Inline image 1] 107 Science II 2310 Pammel Drive Ames, Iowa 50011-1130 Phone: 515-294-7315 To unsubscribe from this list please go to https://community.esa.org/confirm/?u=RhPWqPxFwODKvbkiT32nkIqRrsiSgulp
