Graduate Student Position in Agriculture – Stream Ecology Interface
Laboratory of Bill Perry at Illinois State University – Normal IL
Funded by USDA
Description: We are looking for one masters students to join an interdisciplinary team exploring how cover crops can improve water quality in agricultural regions. This project is examining the potential ecosystem benefits of field pennycress as a new cover crop. Pennycress is a novel cover crop that can also be used to create oil that can be used as jet fuel, for example. At the Illinois State University Research Farm, we have established a replicated experiment plot system with independent subsurface drainage and automated water samplers to sample water leaving the plots for nutrients and discharge. The main goal of the thesis will be to work to explore the potential nutrient load reductions of phosphorus and nitrogen by this cover crop. The successful student will also have the option to expand the studies where they have particular interests.
Desired qualifications: Bachelors degree in biology, environmental science or a similar field. Ability to work independently, willingness to be outside inclement conditions, a driver’s license and transportation to a field site. It is expected that the candidate has experience with basic computer programs including Excel, Word, PowerPoint. A basic understanding of R/RStudio is a benefit and willingness to learn and become proficient is anticipated.
Contact Bill Perry if you are interested. You can also apply directly to the graduate school at Illinois State University at https://illinoisstate.edu/academics/graduate/, potential degree programs could be within the School of Biological Sciences or hydrogeology. You can learn more about the School of Biological Science and its programs here https://biology.illinoisstate.edu/graduate/. Applications are due February 1 for fall admission.
For further information and questions, contact Dr. Bill Perry – wlperry@ilstu.edu or call at 309-438-8160