Graduate Research Assistant (PhD.): Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians
Position The Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture at Stephen F. Austin State University has a T.L.L. Temple graduate assistantship for a doctoral student to begin in Spring 2021, Summer 2021, or Fall 2021. The position is funded for three years ($25,000/year), and will be based in the research group of Dr. Christopher Schalk (https://cmschalk.weebly.com/) that focuses on understanding organization and function of ecological communities and the effects of global and anthropogenic change on these systems. Although the State of Texas does not allow for direct tuition waivers, out- of-state students awarded assistantships only pay the Texas resident tuition rate. To further help defray tuition costs, $2,000 scholarships are also available through this program for qualified students. In addition to research, there also will be opportunities for the candidate to gain teaching experience.
Research Focus The student is expected to develop a project that addresses fundamental or applied questions on the ecology and conservation of amphibians. Potential projects include evaluating the impact of Chinese Tallow on amphibians, understanding the structure and function of amphibian assemblages in bottomland hardwood forests, or the impacts of forest management on amphibians.
Desired Qualifications Individuals with research interests in community ecology, food-web ecology, invasive species ecology, conservation ecology, and herpetology are especially encouraged to apply. Candidates must hold a Master of Science degree by the start date in ecology, wildlife ecology, or related field; experience with field experiments, aquatic ecosystems, amphibians, and strong quantitative skills is desired. Excellent communication and time-management skills, a strong work ethic and attention to detail also are essential. The candidate must also have a valid driver’s license.
About the Area/University SFA is located in Nacogdoches, Texas, with more than 13,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled. The Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture (http://atcofa.sfasu.edu/) has a diverse faculty with strengths in forestry, ecology, wildlife ecology, environmental science and spatial science. Nacogdoches is a city with more than 33,000 residents. It recently was designated as the Top Small City in Texas according to Cities Journal.
Deadline Review of applications will start August 21st and continue until the position is filled. The start date for this position is flexible (either Spring, Summer, or Fall 2021), but preference will be given to applicants who can start in the Spring 2021 semester. Please send only one PDF file with a cover letter outlining your research interests and experiences, GPA, GRE scores (if available), a CV, contact details of three references and an example of your writing to Dr. Christopher Schalk (schalkc@sfasu.edu).