GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP (Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior) – at
Boise State University. A position is available for a motivated Ph.D.
student to study the genetic mechanisms underlying migration behavior and
seasonal timing in American kestrels. American kestrels are an exciting
model species for this work because they exhibit different migratory
strategies and there is evidence that the timing of kestrel breeding and
migration has shifted in parts of their range. This work is part of a
large, collaborative project aimed at 1) collecting empirical data on
kestrel behavior and genetic samples across their range, throughout the
year, and 2) developing models that incorporate inter-seasonal effects on
individual behavior to predict population responses to environmental change.
The PhD project will address questions about environment/genetic
associations, genotype-phenotype relationships, and adaptive capacity of
wild bird populations to respond to climate change. Also, the Ph.D.
student will work with our team to develop innovative approaches for
integrating genetic information into individual-based simulation models. This
project provides opportunities to collaborate with a diverse team of
faculty (Boise State, UCLA, UCSC, St. Mary=E2=80=99s University), NGO scientists
(the Peregrine Fund, HawkWatch International), land managers, students, and
technicians. The student will have the opportunity to travel for field/lab
work or specialized training with collaborators.
We are seeking someone who 1) possess quantitative and programming skills,
2) has well-developed problem solving skills, 3) has an enthusiasm for
studying evolution/ecology, and 4) enjoys working independently and as part
of a team. Master=E2=80=99s degree with relevant experience is preferred. Please
address your qualification for each of these points in your cover letter.
The position starts Fall (Aug) 2018.
*Stipend and tuition and fees*
This position includes support in the form of a graduate assistantships
(renewable, 12-month at $25,000), tuition and fee waiver, and health
insurance.
*About the program and Boise*
The Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior PhD is a new and modern graduate
program at Boise State University. This program brings together faculty
from across multiple academic departments including biological sciences,
geosciences, anthropology, and the human-environment systems group to offer
relevant courses and provide unique mentorship and training opportunities.
Further, we have created a network of valuable connections in academia,
local relationships with federal and state agencies, nonprofits and NGOs,
as well as partnerships with international organizations all dedicated to
providing students with transformative research and educational experiences
for diverse career opportunities. To learn more, please visit:
http://eeb.boisestate.edu/. Boise State University embraces and welcomes
diversity in its faculty, student body, and staff. Accordingly, applicants
who would add to the diversity and excellence of our academic community are
encouraged to apply.
Students in this program enjoy living in the beautiful city of Boise, which
strikes a balance with close-by outdoor recreational activities as well as
a vibrant downtown life. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains
and the capital of the State of Idaho, Boise is frequently featured as a
top-ranked metropolis. In 2017, US News and World report ranked Boise the
12th best city to live in the United States.
*To Apply*
Please send via email in a single file attachment (include your last name
in the file name): a cover letter that states qualifications and career
goals, a CV with the names and contacts for 3 references, copies of
transcripts (unofficial are O.K.) and GRE scores and percentiles (not
combined) to Julie Heath (email: julieheath@boisestate.edu). Please put
=E2=80=9CPhD application=E2=80=9D in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed as
they are received until 10 December. If you do not have GRE scores by the
deadline your application cannot be considered. Top candidates will be
asked to formally apply to Boise State=E2=80=99s EEB program by January 20. All
admission decisions must be approved by the Graduate Dean.