MS Positions: Sensory Ecology in Community Ecology and Conservation Biology
Location: California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo DESCRIPTION: One to two MS positions will be available in the Francis Lab <http://clintondavidfranci.wix.com/francislab> to participate in NSF-funded projects focused on the role of sensory ecology in community ecology and conservation biology. One project focuses on how soundscapes (i.e., all natural and human-made sounds) mediate interactions between wildlife (mainly birds) and humans. The second focuses on how the acoustic environment structures animal communities and interactions among community members. The research will be conducted in a variety of habitats, including high-elevation riparian and conifer forests within the Rocky Mountains, in coastal environments along California’s Central Coast and within grasslands and oak woodlands near Cal Poly’s campus in San Luis Obispo <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Luis_Obispo,_California>. Coursework will begin in Cal Poly’s Biological Sciences Department <http://bio.calpoly.edu/> in September 2016, but positions may begin as early as April 2016 to begin fieldwork. Teaching and research assistantships and tuition waivers will support selected applicants. QUALIFICATIONS: Required: Strong candidates will be highly motivated and have prior experience working with birds and/or bats, a working knowledge of statistics, demonstrate strong writing and communication skills, and possess the ability to work independently and lead small field crews. Individuals with point count, nest searching, plus mist netting and banding experience will be given priority. Preferred: Experience with computer programming and acoustics, a strong interest in quantitative analyses, plus evidence of success in previous projects, including publications and/or professional presentations. HOW TO APPLY: Interested applicants should email the following items to Dr. Clinton Francis (cdfranci (at) calpoly.edu) as soon as possible for guidance on whether to formally apply: 1) A brief statement detailing the candidate’s (a) interest in obtaining a graduate degree focused on the role of sensory ecology in community ecology or conservation biology, (b) past research experience, and (c) professional goals; 2) CV or resume (including GRE scores) and 3) unofficial transcripts. Formal applications to Cal Poly’s MS program <http://bio.calpoly.edu/content/graduate-degrees#Application & Admission> are due on Feb. 1, 2016. ______________________ Clinton D Francis, PhD Assistant Professor Cal Poly Biological Sciences 1 Grand Ave San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 Office: 33-267 Lab: 33-260 Office Phone: 805.756.5358 [email protected] Francis Ecology Lab <http://clintondavidfranci.wix.com/francislab> ______________________
