Dr. Clement Bataille, University of Ottawa (https://clementbataille.wixsite.com/earthscience), is seeking a graduate student to join his research group beginning April 2018 to develop a new isotopic tool to study the ecology of monarch butterflies.
The project: will involve a combination of experimental, analytical and numerical work to develop a novel isotopic tool to constrain the birthplaces of origin of monarchs that overwinter in Mexico. Monarch numbers have decreased rapidly in the last few decades, and the outcomes of this project will help develop new management strategies to protect habitats and conserve the species.
Location: the home department for the selected student will be the department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Ottawa but the student will be co-advised by Tyler Flockhart (UMCES: http://tylerflockhart.com/opportunities/).
Field research: will involve collecting plants and soils across the United States and Canada (summer) and managing a team of volunteers.
Qualifications: successful applicants will have a strong interest in and knowledge of ecology, conservation, geology, and geochemistry. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree in science with excellent academic standing and valid driver license. Experience in field sampling, geology, clean laboratory isotope geochemistry and proficiency in GIS methods (ArcGIS, or R) will be an advantage. Domestic (Canadian) applicants and/or students eligible for international tuition waiver at University of Ottawa are preferred.
Contact information: interested individuals should contact Clement Bataille (cbataill@uottawa.ca) & Tyler Flockhart (tyler.flockhart@umces.edu). Please include your CV, list of references, and unofficial transcripts in a single pdf. Applications sent by November 15th will be given full consideration.