M.S. Graduate Research Assistantship Wetland Functional Assessment (Avian Emphasis), School of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Fisheries Resources Program, West Virginia University
STARTING DATE: August 2016 CLOSING DATE: Position is open until filled. Applications will be reviewed starting February 26, 2016. DESCRIPTION: The School of Natural Resources at West Virginia University is searching for an MS student as part of a collaborative project to evaluate wetland functions (biodiversity, water storage, nutrient processing, and sediment retention) on Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Agricultural Conservation Easement Program wetlands. The thesis will focus on evaluating wintering and migrating avian abundance, diversity, and community structure within NRCS wetlands and on nearby reference wetlands within West Virginia. The student will be working towards an MS in Wildlife and Fisheries Resources at West Virginia University (http://wildlife.wvu.edu/). QUALIFICATIONS: B.S. in wildlife, environmental science, or related field. Minimum GPA of 3.25 and combined quantitative/verbal GRE scores of 300 (~1,100 old scoring system). A strong interest in wetland and avian ecology is required. Previous field experience in wetlands and working with waterfowl or songbirds is highly desired. STIPEND: $16,536/year plus health insurance and university tuition waiver. CONTACT: Student will be co-advised by Dr. James T. Anderson and Dr. Christopher T. Rota. Interested individuals should send a letter of interest, CV, a 500-word statement of purpose (why do you want to work on this project, your research interests, and long-term career goals), unofficial copy of transcripts and GRE scores, and contact information for 3 references to the following faculty: Dr. Jim Anderson, [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> Dr. Chris Rota, [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> James T. Anderson, Ph.D. Davis-Michael Professor Forestry and Natural Resources Program Coordinator, Wildlife and Fisheries Resources West Virginia University (304) 293-3825 Office http://wildlife.wvu.edu/
