Title: M.S. Assistantship – Vernal Pool and Seep Wetland Mapping in Eastern Oklahoma
Location: Stillwater, Oklahoma
Start Date: January 1, 2027
Position Description: A 2-year graduate research assistantship for a Master of Science in Natural Resource Ecology and Management is available with Dr. Bryan Murray at Oklahoma State University to map vernal pools and seep wetlands in southeastern Oklahoma. Vernal pools and seep wetlands are vital fishless ecosystems providing seasonal habitats that sustain amphibians and macroinvertebrates of high conservation concern. The student will develop, assess, and refine a mapping framework to identify vernal pools and seep wetlands using geospatial modeling, remotely sensed data, and ground truthing. This mapping framework will advance conservation planning for ephemeral wetlands and species of greatest conservation need in the region.
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, ecology, earth science, geography, or a related field, undergraduate GPA ≥ 3.0, and a valid driver’s license are required. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in studying the application of cutting-edge mapping techniques to support conservation planning. Strong verbal and written communication skills, strong quantitative and analytical skills, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and balancing lab/field work with office responsibilities are necessary.
Salary and Benefits: $24,000/year, resident and non-resident tuition waiver, and health insurance at $25 per month (for student only; family coverage is available for an additional fee).
Application Procedure: Applications will be accepted until April 24, 2026, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Send a cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information for 3 professional references to the e-mail addresses below. All information must be in a single PDF with the cover letter at the beginning, followed by resume/CV, then references. Please name the file using the following format: last name_first name_OSU2027.
Contact:
Dr. Bryan Murray: bryan.murray@okstate.edu
Institutional Information: Oklahoma State University (OSU) is located in Stillwater, Oklahoma, which is within an hour of both Tulsa and Oklahoma City. OSU is a land-grant institution with an enrollment of ~25,000 students, and it is located on the ancestral lands of the Kickapoo, Osage, Kiowa, and Quapaw peoples. Indigenous people from other Native nations also reside here, many of whom were forcibly removed from their ancestral lands. They all contribute to the history and current vitality of our region. The Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management is part of the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources and conducts interdisciplinary research, instruction, and extension education to address the sustainable management and conservation of the wildlife, forest, rangeland, and fishery resources of Oklahoma and beyond. The Department is a source of cutting-edge research, quality instruction, and effective outreach to students, landowners, managers, and public agencies.
Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to a criminal background check. Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions.