*PhD Assistantship is immediately available to engage in collaborative research on the assessment of neonicotinoids in the Prairie Pothole Region.*
*Agency:* Department of Natural Resource Management, South Dakota State University and South Dakota Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service *Location:* Brookings, SD *Job Description:* One PhD Research/Teaching Assistantship is anticipated beginning in fall 2016 or at the successful incumbent’s earliest availability at South Dakota State University. The project will include examination of neonicotinoid exposure on USFWS grasslands and a risk assessment for rare and endangered butterflies. The co-PIs on this research project are Jon Lundgren, Lora Perkins and Josh Stafford from South Dakota State University and Kyle Kelsey with the USFWS. Research will primarily consist of field studies and laboratory work. The incumbent will have the opportunity to build collaborations among government, non-governmental agencies, and academia. *Qualifications:* Students must have a B.S. in ecology, environmental science, wildlife science, entomology, natural resource conservation, or closely related discipline and a M.S is preferred. In the application materials, please describe your: 1. background in grassland ecology; 2. ability to identify prairie grasses, forbs, and insect communities, and; 3. ability to conduct laboratory assays for detecting insecticides (e.g., ELISA). The applicant should possess the ability to work with a diversity of natural resource professionals, including federal agencies and non-government organizations. Strong communication and collaborative skills are necessary, considering the multiple entities involved with this project. The 12-month stipend includes full tuition remission and is guaranteed for 4 years as long as annual progress reviews demonstrate adequate progress. To apply, applicants should create a single document containing 1) a cover letter that includes a description of work experience and career goals, 2) resume, and 3) the names and contact information of 3 references (phone and e-mail address); copies of transcripts and GRE scores (unofficial are acceptable at this time) are also required. GPA of 3.0 or above and GRE score of 1100 (verbal + quantitative or New scores: 156 Verbal and 151 Quantitative) is preferred. Send application to the contacts below. *Last Date to apply:* Until Filled *Please send application materials or questions electronically to the following:* *Dr. Joshua D. Stafford, *[email protected]* 605-688-5759* *Dr. Lora Perkins, *[email protected] 605-688-6970. *Dr. Jonathan Lundgren, *[email protected] 605-695-9878
