Two MS assistantships are available in January 2019 to study stream fish ecology at Tennessee Tech University. One position will be focused on the ecological effects of freshwater fish migrations, using buffalo (Ictiobus spp.) spawning migrations in the Citico Creek system of eastern Tennessee as a model system. Anticipated project objectives include quantification of nutrients contributed to Citico Creek via buffalo excretion, eggs, and carcasses, and comparison of these nutrient inputs with background nutrient levels. The second position will be focused on conservation of the striated darter ( Etheostoma striatulum ), a state-listed fish restricted to a narrow range of headwater habitats in the Duck River in central Tennessee. Anticipated project objectives include determination of the striated darter’s current distribution, abundance, and population status, as well as exploration of links between ontogenetic niche shifts and habitat characteristics.
Qualifications: Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Wildlife, Conservation, or a related discipline with an undergraduate GPA ≥ 3.0 and GRE scores ≥ 40th percentile. Additionally, a minimum GRE Analytical Writing score of 3.5 is required. Ideal candidates will possess experience working with freshwater fishes, a commitment to the conservation of freshwater biodiversity, and a positive attitude.
Stipends associated with the two positions will be $1,200/month, and will also cover tuition and fees. At least one, and perhaps both, of the positions will be associated with a teaching assistantship in the Biology department, which require students to teach undergraduate labs while completing their graduate degree requirements.
Tennessee Tech University is located in Cookeville, which offers quick access to a tremendous variety of outdoor recreation activities, relatively low cost of living, a core group of citizens committed to maintaining a unique local culture, and proximity to the larger metropolitan areas of Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville.
Interested applicants should send the following materials, and any related questions, to Dr. Kit Wheeler at kitwheeler@tntech.edu : (1) brief cover letter detailing their interest in the position and career goals; (2) resume or CV; (3) unofficial transcripts and GRE scores; (4) contact information for two individuals familiar with their research/academic performance. Applications will be reviewed as received.