MS Position: Assessing Multitrophic Impacts of Microplastic Pollution on Macroinvertebrates in Matagorda Bay: Students will receive a monthly salary of $1600 for 30 month (2.5 year) commitment, including health benefits as an employee of Tarleton State University and the Texas A&M University System. Out-of-state tuition costs are waived; students are responsible for costs of in-state tuition and fees. Students will receive assistance through the hire of field technicians, compensation for travel and lab costs, and funding to present research at a professional conference of their choice.
Description: The Mitchell Lab in the Department of Wildlife and Natural Resources at Tarleton State University is seeking a highly motivated student to receive a M.S. in Agriculture and Natural Resource to explore the relationship in microplastic pollutants in macroinvertebrate food webs for Summer 2023. The student will conduct field surveys in Matagorda Bay and adjacent wetland ecosystems to obtain tissue samples of invertebrates and plants for analysis alongside developing a baseline macroinvertebrate community in impacted wetland systems.
Travel and multi-day fieldwork is expected. Students will also develop a microcosm study under laboratory conditions exploring the transfer of candidate microplastic and nanoplastic materials through sediment, plant tissues, and to invertebrates at higher trophic levels.
Qualifications B.S. in ecology, fisheries, entomology, marine sciences, or other related fields with GPA of at least 3.0 required. Preference will be given to applicants with experience in freshwater or coastal systems, piloting single-engine watercraft, experience with statistical software (R statistical programming or equivalent), and scientific writing. Students must be self-motivated, able to work independently in adverse field conditions (esp. hot weather and stinging insects) and in remote areas, and must have a valid driver’s license.
To apply, please email the following materials as a single PDF file to Adam Mitchell (abmitchell@tarleton.edu) 1) a single-page cover letter describing professional goals and which of the two positions you have interest, 2) a resume or CV, 3) copy of academic transcript (official or unofficial), and 4) contact information for three references. Please include the subject line “YOURNAME_InvertebrateMS”. Last Date to Apply 03/17/2023
Contact Person Dr Adam Mitchell Contact Phone 2544595334 Contact eMail abmitchell@tarleton.edu