MS Assistantship in harmful algal bloom ecology
A research assistantship is available for a masters student in the Department of Biology at Tennessee Tech starting Summer or Fall 2023. This project aims to better understand harmful algal bloom development in flowing waters by linking cyanobacterial productivity and toxin production to river conditions. This work is part of a large multi-university project to predict HABs development in the Ohio River. The data from this project will be used to parameterize a hydrodynamic model that combines flow dynamics, water quality, and algal growth in large rivers to predict blooms. The student will gain experience conducting field or laboratory-based experiments in algal ecology, and learn to use various instruments including nutrient autoanalyzers, a HAB toxin analyzer, MIMS, imaging flow cytometer, and other algal research instrumentation.
The position includes a 12-month/year stipend (2.5 years of support) and all tuition is covered.
Preferred Qualifications: Undergraduate degree in any aquatic science or ecology (minimum G.P.A. of 3.0); Experience with microscopy, biochemical analyses, and/or algal ecological research. Outstanding students who may not have this specific background are also encouraged to apply.
Interested applicants should send a CV, brief cover letter describing experience and goals, unofficial transcripts, copy of GRE scores, and contact information of two individuals familiar with research/academic performance to Dr. Justin Murdock at jnmurdock@tntech.edu. More information about the laboratory can be found at https://sites.tntech.edu/jnmurdock/. Our lab is dedicated to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment. Start date is negotiable, and can be as early as May 2023. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. TTU graduate school application information can be found at https://www.tntech.edu/graduatestudies/graduateadmissions/
Tennessee Tech has a particularly strong fisheries and aquatic ecology program, and has substantial aquatic and hydrology research conducted through Tennessee Tech’s Center for the Management, Utilization, and Protection of Water Resources https://www.tntech.edu/watercenter. The University is situated in Cookeville, Tennessee in the scenic rolling hills of the Upper Cumberland region, which is known for exceptional outdoor recreational opportunities. More information about the area is available at https://visitcookevilletn.com/.