Description: A Master of Science graduate research assistantship is available with Dr. Mitch Weegman in the School of Natural Resources at the University of Missouri (www.snr.missouri.edu). This project will utilize data collected from hybrid Global Positioning System (GPS) and acceleration (ACC) tracking devices fitted to greater white-fronted geese in Europe and North America to answer fundamental questions in movement ecology related to life history differences underlying white- fronted goose subspecies, and linked with their demographic rates and population trends. This work is a collaboration between researchers at the University of Missouri, Texas A & M University-Kingsville, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (UK), University of Exeter (UK) and Aarhus University (Denmark).
Prerequisites: Ideal candidates will have an undergraduate degree in statistics, wildlife ecology or a closely related field, and interpersonal skills to lead discussions among collaborators. Preference will be given to those with a strong quantitative background (e.g., experience with Program R, machine learning algorithms, Bayesian methods), knowledge of waterfowl ecology and management, and field experience (e.g., handling birds). Competitive applicants will have an undergraduate GPA > 3.4, quantitative GRE scores that average in the 70th percentile or higher, and a GRE analytical writing score > 4.0. Students must have a valid driver’s license. The successful applicant will be expected to publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals and present papers at scientific meetings. Salary and benefits: Approximately $18,300 per year, with an expected annual increase, health insurance and course waiver (i.e., the student will not pay tuition). Start date: January 2017 Last date to apply: October 7, 2016 To be considered for this position, please send the following (preferably as a single PDF) to Dr. Mitch Weegman ([email protected]): 1. Letter of interest summarizing your experience 2. Curriculum vitae or resume 3. College transcripts (unofficial are fine) 4. GRE scores (unofficial are fine) 5. Contact information for three references
