PhD Assistantship - Population Dynamics of Reptiles and Amphibians

Description: The successful candidate will develop a research project to understand factors driving the distribution and dynamics of reptile and/or amphibian populations in Montana, especially changes resulting from anthropogenic effects (e.g., invasive species, climate and land-use change). Specific research questions and study organisms (e.g., western toad, long-toed salamander, snapping turtle, greater short-horned lizard) are flexible to accommodate the interests of the student and will be determined jointly by the advisor and selected candidate. The student will pursue a Ph.D. degree in the Department of Ecology at Montana State University (http://www.montana.edu/ecology).

Required Qualifications: B.S. and M.S. in wildlife science, ecology, zoology, or closely related field. A strong work ethic, good verbal and written communication skills, ability to work independently and as a productive member of a research team, ability to work under adverse field conditions are essential. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and 1100 combined GRE score (V+Q).
Preferred Qualifications: Background or interest in community and population ecology and herpetology. Experience trapping, handling, and identifying reptiles and amphibians, hiking, and some experience with plant identification.
Stipend/Salary: The student will be supported by a research assistantship ($1500/month, plus insurance) for the first 3 years and nonresident tuition will be waived. Additional funding (via teaching and/or research assistantships) will be pursued for subsequent years of support.
Start Date: mid-August 2011
Application Deadline: We will begin reviewing applications on 15 June 2011 and will continue until a suitable candidate is selected.
To Apply: Send a cover letter stating research interests related to this topic, career goals, resume/cv, unofficial copies of transcripts and GRE scores, and contact information for 3 references to: Dr. Andrea Litt, andrea.litt@montana.edu

Andrea R. Litt
Department of Ecology
Montana State University
P.O. Box 173460
Bozeman, MT 59717-3460
Tel: (406) 994-2332
Fax: (406) 994-3190
Web: www.montana.edu/litt
Location: 303 Lewis Hall