Funded MS Opportunity in Desert Amphibian and Disease Ecology to start Fall 2018 or January 2019
Deadline for applications August 1st We are seeking a highly motivated individual to employ as a MSc Student conducting research on amphibian and disease ecology in ephemeral waters in the Sonoran Desert south-central Arizona. The student will examine how water quality affects amphibian development and determine the extent to which water sites constructed for wildlife function as disease reservoirs. The work will consist of checking and maintaining data loggers, setting up field enclosures with amphibian embryos and monitoring until hatching, measuring recently hatched amphibians, sampling water quality, collecting and preserving water samples, and environmental DNA (eDNA) collection and analysis. Qualifications: We are looking for a highly motivated and creative individual. This position requires hard work, problem solving, and a tolerance for desert heat. Hired individuals will encounter venomous snakes and invertebrates. This is a physically demanding job which requires hiking into remote sites, odd hours and extended hours during monsoonal rains, driving a 4wd on unmaintained roads, and coordinating with military security. Rock climbing or scrambling experience helpful but not required. Experience with amphibians and/or genetics is desirable, but not required. Preference will be given to motivated candidates with excellent communication skills and who are willing and able to function in the summer desert environment. The graduate student will be co-advised by Dr. Kerry Griffis-Kyle and Dr. Matthew Barnes. The position is funded for $16.5K/year plus a tuition waiver and opportunities for additional fellowships. We encourage applications from everyone, including ethnic and gender minorities. Texas Tech University is one of four major state supported universities in Texas and is designated as an emerging research university by the State of Texas. Interested applicants should email Dr. Kerry Griffis-Kyle (kerry.griffis-k...@ttu.edu) and have “Graduate opportunity” in the subject line. Please include in the email: 1. How this position will help you fulfill your career goals and why I should hire you 2. Resume or CV including pertinent work experience 3. Unofficial transcripts 4. GRE scores 5. Contact information for three references 6. Address, phone, and email Position contingent upon funding. Texas Tech University requires a background check of all new employees. For additional information on the Department: http://www.depts.ttu.edu/nrm/
