We are seeking a student to conduct their PhD research beginning winter-early summer 2015 in the Department of Zoology and Physiology and Program in Ecology at the University of Wyoming. In the first year, the student will conduct field research on Oahu, HI before taking classes fall 2015. The project is part of a larger multi-disciplinary effort investigating seed dispersal networks comprised of interacting native and non-native plant and vertebrate species in Hawaiian ecosystems. Specifically, the project will focus on (1) identifying and quantifying vertebrate (birds and rats) seed dispersers and their interactions, (2) radio-telemetry of key seed dispersers, and (3) evaluating/predicting effects of seed disperser movements and diet preference on vegetation communities. Opportunities exist to conduct research on avian population ecology, community ecology (competition, predator/prey dynamics), and plant-vertebrate interactions (seed dispersal/predation). The student will interact not only with people at Univ. of Wyoming, but with the other PIs and graduate students on the project at Univ. of Hawaii, Univ. of New Hampshire, and Univ. of Illinois. The candidate selected for this position will be provided with summer salary and a 3 - 3.5 year (depending upon start date) assistantship that includes a tuition waiver and monthly stipend.
Qualifications: Ideal candidate will possess either a B.S. degree in biology, wildlife ecology, natural resource management, or a related field and 2+ years of field experience or a M.S. degree in the above fields. Candidates must meet the minimum requirements of the University of Wyoming (min. GRE Score: 291 as of August 2011, or 900 if taken prior to August 2011, min. GPA: 3.0). Preference will be given to applicants with experience in writing manuscripts and in tropical avian ecology, seed dispersal, and/or radio telemetry. We are looking for a highly motivated individual that has the ability to work in collaboration with our large research team, ability to develop an independent project within the general scope of our research project, and ability to conduct tropical research for up to 8 months/year. Contact: Dr. Corey E. Tarwater ([email protected]), University of Wyoming, currently at University of British Columbia. Please provide letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and contact information for 3 references familiar with your experience and qualifications. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The University of Wyoming is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law and University policy. Please see www.uwyo.edu/diversity/fairness. We conduct background investigations for all final candidates being considered for employment. Offers of employment are contingent upon the completion of the background check.
