M.S. Graduate Research Assistantship- Grotto Sculpin Population Ecology

Starting Date: August 2007

Description: The project will involve mark-recapture of the Grotto Sculpin (a federal candidate cavefish species) in two caves and two resurgence streams in Perry County, Missouri. This is a continuation of an ongoing project (it will encompass the last two years of a four year project) to provide baseline data on the population status, movement and growth of this rare and unique species. The student would overlap with my current graduate student for a semester and have time to learn the field techniques and caves before taking over as lead on the project. The student will be expected to work closely with the Missouri Department of Conservation to schedule field trips and coordinate field help. A research assistantship will be available for part and likely all of the project period. The student will develop a thesis proposal related to this research and will work towards a M.S. in Biology at the University of Central Arkansas.

Qualifications: B.S. in Biology, Environmental Science or closely related field. Minimum GPA of 3.0 and a combined quantitative/verbal GRE score of 1100 (field experience may help offset any deficiency in scores). A strong interest in cave ecology is essential and a student with caving experience is highly desirable. Independent, hard-working students that can handle long hours in the field, work well with landowners, volunteers and agency personnel preferred.

Stipend: $12,000/year (dependent on funding) plus tuition waiver

Contact: If you are interested in this position please send your resume, statement of interest (why you are interested in this project and your career goals), copy of transcripts and GRE scores ,and three letters of recommendation to Dr. Ginny Adams (ginny.adams@mac.com).



Ginny Adams, PhD
Environmental Science Program Coordinator
Department of Biology
University of Central Arkansas
Conway, AR 72035

Phone: 501-450-5917
Fax: 501-450-5914
Email: ginny.adams@mac.com