We seek an MS student to start May 2021 on a project examining the influence of beaver mimicry on the structure and function of headwater stream and riparian food webs in western Montana. The student will be part of the Systems Ecology program at the University of Montana and jointly advised by Drs. Ben Colman (Franke College of Forestry and Conservation) and Rachel Malison (Flathead Lake Biological Station).
The project is focused on understanding changes to aquatic insect communities due to the installation of Beaver Dam Analogs (BDAs), which are increasingly used as a method of stream restoration. Aquatic insects are an important component of streams and their surrounding riparian ecosystems. The MS student will also contribute to ongoing work that focuses on how BDAs influence fish communities and stream/riparian biogeochemistry.
Applicants from a range of backgrounds are encouraged to apply, especially those from historically excluded groups. Two years of funding is available through a combination of teaching and research assistant positions. Tuition, research funding, and support for conference travel are also provided. Preference will be given to candidates with experience working with aquatic invertebrates, especially those with experience in aquatic insect taxonomy. The ideal candidate would also have prior research experience and possess both good organizational skills and an attention to detail.
Priority will be given to those who apply by January 10, 2021 by uploading the following information as a single pdf document to this link: 1) a resume or CV; 2) a letter of interest describing past research experiences and future goals (1-page limit); 3) unofficial transcript(s) from undergraduate institution(s); 4) the names and contact information for three references. Please send an email to introduce yourself to us at ben.colman@umontana.edu and rachel.malison@flbs.umt.edu.