The Herpetology and Applied Conservation Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at Marshall University (Huntington, WV) is seeking a highly motivated graduate student (M.S.) to conduct research on Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes (EDB) at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC. Applicants must have prior field experience and an interest in rattlesnake ecology. Applicants must be committed to following strict safety protocols and tolerant of uncomfortable field conditions (hot, high humidity, biting insects). Applicants must demonstrate maturity and have a history of working well with others (peers and technicians).
Initiated in 2008, the EDB monitoring program uses individual-level data (radio telemetry, camera traps, and mark-recapture) in an adaptive management framework to maintain congruence among military training activities and natural resource management, ensuring military readiness is not compromised by access to training areas. With guidance from senior lab personnel, graduate students in the Herpetology and Applied Conservation Lab are encouraged to develop and implement M.S. thesis projects that match their research interests while complementing the EDB monitoring program. The funded position requires a 2.5-3 year commitment, with the successful applicant starting field work in summer 2025. The student will work under the mentorship of Dr. Jayme Waldron and will spend ~8 months per year in the field (including summer and 1 semester/year). While on campus (1 semester/year; Huntington, WV), the student will be expected to teach biology labs in the Department of Biological Sciences as a Graduate Teaching Assistant. The student will be expected to manage and train field technicians, as needed. Salary and compensation: ~$18,000/year plus a tuition waiver (excluding fees). Because the position requires use of personal vehicle, we will compensate for mileage accrued at the study site @ $0.55/mile. Field housing will be provided. Send application materials in one pdf file that includes unofficial transcripts, resume (including contact information for three references), and a 1-page state of interest to Emily Gray (Lab Manager) at emily.g...@marshall.edu<mailto:emily.g...@marshall.edu>. We will begin reviewing applications immediately and the position will remain open until filled. To unsubscribe from this list please go to https://community.esa.org/confirm/?u=RhPWqPxFwODKvbkiT32nkIqRrsiSgulp
