MS Assistantship in Natural Resources in the Fisheries and Wildlife emphasis area
Agency/location: Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri; Columbia, Missouri https://snr.missouri.edu/graduate-studies/
Start date: January 2022
Description: The successful applicant will investigate and model the distribution of two Missouri endemic crayfishes (Big Creek Crayfish and St. Francis River Crayfish) threatened by the expansion of the invasive Woodland Crayfish. Additionally, the student will estimate the rate of spread of the invasive to inform conservation planning efforts.
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in natural resources or related field, strong written and verbal communication abilities, ability to work effectively in a team and with agency biologists, and a passion for conservation of aquatic species. Preferred qualifications include interest in invasion ecology and/or crayfish ecology, good organizational skills, experience working with private landowners, and the ability to develop strong quantitative skills. This is a field intensive project and will require sampling in a variety of conditions and leading/coordinating hourly field technicians.
Stipend: $22,500/year plus benefits and tuition waiver. Position will be for a minimum 2 years, based on annual funding allocations.
Closing date: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled, but preference will be given to applications received by October 15, 2021. Start date is January 2022, but flexible based on funding approval and student availability.
Contact: Send letter of interest, resume or CV, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for three references to Jacob Westhoff, Missouri Cooperative Research Unit, University of Missouri-Columbia. 573-884-8464; westhoffj@missouri.edu