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M.S. Assistantship – Stream Connectivity & Stream Fishes

Posted: 
04/19/2021
Expiration Date: 
05/15/2021

Agency: Arkansas Tech University
Location: Russellville, Arkansas
Job Category: Graduate Assistantships
Salary: $13,200 plus tuition waiver
Start Date: 07/01/2021
Last Date to Apply: May 15
Website: https://www.atu.edu/biosciences/fishwildlife/index.php

Description: I am seeking a master’s student to investigate the impact of culverts, low pass concrete barriers, and bridges on stream fish assemblages and stream physical habitat across a spectrum of flow permanence. This project is nested within an undergraduate project investigating fish movement across different types of stream barriers and additionally will contribute to our understanding of the impacts of stream barriers on fish assemblages at the watershed scale. The project will focus on Ozark and Ouachita Mountain streams, these seasonally variable systems have high levels of fish species richness and endemism. The successful applicant will start July 1, 2021 or shortly thereafter. Field work will involve sampling fishes with backpack shockers and additional sampling gear, conducting the EPA Physical Habitat Protocol, as well as monitoring additional physicochemical predictors. The student will have the ability to enhance the project creatively while also benefitting from a team approach. 

The student’s stipend will be paid by teaching undergraduate labs in fall and spring semesters. A tuition waiver will be provided. Much of the field work will be conducted during hot summer months but additional sampling will be required during periods of higher flow in winter to monitor impacts across seasons.

Russellville, Arkansas is a semi-rural area in the Arkansas River Valley just south of the Ozark Mountains. Recreational opportunities include hiking, fishing, paddling, and mountain biking. State parks are free in Arkansas and several are nearby. The graduate community at ATU is small, but close knit, and faculty are approachable and accessible. The larger Arkansas fish community is also an inclusive, welcoming group and the student will interact with other agency and academic fisheries professionals at regional and national meetings. 

Qualifications 

B.S. in Fisheries, Biology, Ecology or closely related field. Ability to work safely and productively in difficult field conditions will be required. Ability to work independently but also as a team member that enhances a respectful, productive, and inclusive work group is necessary. Prior field knowledge working in aquatic systems is beneficial but not necessary. This position is optimal for individuals who wish to pursue a career in fisheries, stream or aquatic ecology, or related field. Experience with R and GIS is beneficial but not required. Interested students should submit a single pdf containing: a letter of interest, resume or CV, copies of unofficial transcripts, GRE scores, and contact information for 3 references to: Dr. Sue Colvin.

Contact Person: Dr. Sue Colvin

Contact Email: scolvin4@atu.edu