An M.S. Assistantship is available in the Department of Biology at the University of Akron for Spring 2014. In collaboration with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife, the successful candidate will study movement and migratory behavior of tree bats within the western basin of Lake Erie. Movement is a ubiquitous feature of life on Earth but we still know relatively little about patterns of movement in bats when compared to birds. A better understanding of the spatial and temporal scale of migration can more accurately inform conservation decisions related to the sensitivity of particular locations for migratory species, especially in the face of ongoing development and climate change. Further, improved quantification of movement corridors can lead to proactive strategies for conservation by prioritizing areas that facilitate movement. Results of this study will enhance our knowledge of the natural history of these species as well as provide information for future conservation strategies for bats in the Great Lakes region.
Admission requires: a baccalaureate degree in biology; minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 with a 3.0 average in biology courses; competence in chemistry and mathematics; GRE scores; a letter of interest from the student; a letter from the potential Biology advisor indicating willingness to sponsor the applicant. Further, qualified applicants should currently hold, or have the experience to obtain, a federal and state permit for bats. The successful candidate will receive a stipend and tuition waiver. Housing will be provided in the field. More information about the Master's Program in Biology can be found at www.uakron.edu/biology/academics/ms-program/index.dot<http://www.uakron.edu/biology/academics/ms-program/index.dot>. Information on applying to the University of Akron through the Graduate College can be found at http://www.uakron.edu/admissions/graduate/. Interested students should contact Greg Smith in the UA Department of Biology as soon as possible at [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> or 330-972-7501. The University of Akron is a large (27,000 students) metropolitan campus located in Akron, OH, about 35 miles south of Cleveland. The Biology Department has a strong graduate program (M.S. and Ph.D.) in the specialty areas of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Physiology, Molecular Biology, and Organismal Biology. Research facilities include a live animal research center, a 400 acre field station, field vehicles, a greenhouse, and various other field and lab equipment. Our faculty emphasize collaborative and integrative research. Akron, OH is a great place to live, with a high quality of life. There are abundant natural amenities, including nearby metroparks and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There is also ready access to many diverse cultural events including sports, several symphony orchestras, excellent museums, and one of the nation's premier amphitheaters, Blossom Music Center, which attracts many national concerts. Learn more at www.greaterakronchamber.org/<http://www.greaterakronchamber.org/>. ** Please share this announcement with others that might be interested. **
