Department of Ecology: Ecological knowledge is critical to conserve and manage individual species, fundamental interactions between species, and the ecosystems and landscapes that sustain them. We study fish, birds, mammals, plants, insects, and other taxa of ecological, cultural and economic importance to the state, the nation, and the world. Through wide-reaching research, outstanding teaching, and community engagement, students and faculty in the Department of Ecology seek to understand and address fundamental and applied ecological questions and problems in Montana and across the globe.
The Department of Ecology offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences with four options: Biology Teaching, Conservation Biology & Ecology, Fish & Wildlife Ecology & Management, and Organismal Biology. Graduate degrees include a Masters or PhD in Biological Sciences, Masters in Fish & Wildlife Management, PhD in Fish & Wildlife Biology, and an inter-college PhD in Ecology and Environmental Sciences. We invite you to search the information below to learn more about these programs and about the people that make up the department.
PhD Assistantship – Marten (Martes spp.) monitoring to inform management The successful candidate will develop a research project that can inform marten monitoring and management in Montana, including: 1) developing a statewide habitat model, 2) assessing the distribution of Pacific marten (Martes caurina), American marten (M. americana), and putative hybrids with genetic sampling conducted in Montana and Idaho, and 3) conducting field studies and developing a methodology for monitoring occupancy of these species.
The field component will occur throughout western Montana and may require spending some time away from Bozeman. The project is a collaboration with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Specific research questions will be determined jointly by the advisor, collaborators, and selected candidate. The student will pursue a Ph.D. at Montana State University in the Department of Ecology, advised by Dr. Andrea Litt.
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications: • B.S. and M.S. in wildlife science, ecology, zoology, or closely related field. • Applicants should have an average GPA of 3.0 in biology courses; 3.0 average in courses taken during the junior and senior years; and 2.5 average in chemistry, physics and mathematics courses. • A strong work ethic, drive, and motivation to succeed • Aptitude for modelling and quantitative ecology • Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as a productive member of a research team • Ability to work under adverse, winter field conditions The Litt lab is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, and strongly encourages applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds. Interested parties are encouraged to apply even if these minimums aren’t met.
Preferred Qualifications: • Background or interest in mammalogy, genetics, and habitat selection. • Experience working and communicating with other biologists, landowners, and the public.
To Apply: Please send (1) a cover letter focused on the listed qualifications, as well as how the opportunity would help further career goals, (2) resume/cv – listing presentations and publications, (3) unofficial copies of transcripts, and (4) contact information for 3 references to Dr. Andrea Litt (andrea.litt@montana.edu). Contact Person Andrea Litt Contact eMail andrea.litt@montana.edu
Salary 2750/mo plus insurance, tuition/fees
Start Date 08/01/2023
Last Date to Apply 03/13/2023
Website http://www.montana.edu/litt/