M.S. Graduate Student Opportunity
Population Genomics of Streamside Salamander (Ambystoma barbouri)
An M.S. position supervised by Dr. Carla Hurt is available through the
Department of Biology (https://www.tntech.edu/cas/biology/) at Tennessee
Tech University in Cookeville, Tennessee; starting date is August 2017.
The successful applicant will use reduced representation genomic
techniques to investigate the evolutionary history and population genetic
structure of the Streamside Salamander (Ambystoma barbouri) throughout its
range. Specifically, the student would utilize a Gentoyping-by-Sequencing
protocol to identify and genotype informative SNPs and utilize this data
to address questions related to the conservation of this species. Results
from this study will be directly applicable to improving management
protocols for the Streamside Salamander. GBS is proving to be a powerful
tool for evaluating the patterns of genetic variation within and between
populations. The student will gain valuable expertise in genomic tools
and data analysis that are widely applicable to the field of conservation
genomics.
We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a B.S. in biology
or closely related field and a strong academic record. A GPA of at
least 3.5 is required. The successful candidate should demonstrate an
interest in wildlife conservation and molecular genetics. The student
will need to possess an aptitude for data analysis and careful research
in a molecular genetics laboratory as well as an ability to conduct
field work. Previous experience working in a molecular laboratory
is preferred but exceptional applicants without experience will
be considered. Financial support (stipend and full tuition waiver)
will be provided through a Teaching Assistantship and will be renewable
annually contingent upon satisfactory performance.
Interested students are encouraged to e-mail me (churt@tntech.edu). Please
include a short description of your academic background, research
interests and your CV. Screening of applicants will begin immediately.
Please contact me by June 1st for full consideration.