We are recruiting an MS student to evaluate the application of Virtual Fencing (VF) technology for livestock management to achieve multiple conservation objectives. VF is a relatively new technology that uses GPS collars fitted to cattle to reduce reliance on physical fences– this increases the flexibility of rangeland management because pasture boundaries can be changed remotely, but also reduces the potential negative impacts of fencing on wild animal movement. Because this technology is relatively new,
we are seeking a student to help us collect field trial data to help improve this conservation tool. We are recruiting a student to start January 2023 – because this is a short turnaround, there is flexibility to work/attend remotely for the month of January, to arrive February 2023. If a suitable candidate is not found, we will consider a start date of summer 2023
Qualifications:
Applicants should have a B.S. in biology, wildlife ecology or conservation, rangeland science, natural resource management, animal science, or a related field. Applicants should have a GPA of 3.0 or greater. Applicants MUST have experience with at least one of the following (but we encourage candidates with any of these to apply!): – Grassland plant identification – Vegetation sampling – Pollinator research or management – ArcGIS or other spatial software – Program R Preferred applicants will have experience conducting field research or land management and be comfortable working in in challenging field conditions.
Oklahoma State University requires background checks for all newly hired graduate assistants, and they will be conducted prior to employment (i.e., post-offer and pre-employment). 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.
How to apply:
To apply, please contact Dr. Courtney Duchardt via email (Courtney.duchardt@okstate.edu). Combined into a single document, please include a one-page cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references. Please use the subject line “VF MS OSU Application”. Review of applications will begin immediately, and will continue until a suitable candidate is identified
Oklahoma State University is located in Stillwater, Oklahoma, on the ancestral lands of the Kickapoo, Osage, Kiowa, and Quapaw peoples. Our collaborative group is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we are committed to training students to tackle the broad array of conservation issues that arise on rangelands worldwide. Those solutions require people with different backgrounds, interests, and insights.
Contact Person Courtney Duchardt Contact eMail courtney.duchardt@okstate.edu
Salary $18000 + health insurance and tuition waiver, with opportunities for additional fellowships/teaching stipends
Last Date to Apply 01/01/2023