MS Opportunity at South Dakota State University: Mammal Ecology & Management: We are seeking a motivated student interested in pursuing a MS in quantitative and applied studies in wildlife ecology, conservation, and/or management to join our team beginning Fall 2023 or January 2024
The successful candidate will co-develop a project of mutual interest with Dr. Cheeseman using trapping, trail cameras, and acoustics to survey small mammals and bats in South Dakota with field work to occur on military lands near the picturesque Badlands National Park.
They/he/she will be expected to lead remote field work in western SD, publish their findings in the peer-reviewed literature, attend and present at relevant conferences, and excel in their academic studies.
The student will be supported on a combination of teaching/ research assistantships for 2.5 years with possible extension given project timelines. Stipend is set at $21k with full tuition waiver. GRE scores not required for admission.
The Cheeseman lab focuses on understanding the relationships between wildlife and their habitats across space and through time with the goal of producing science informed management recommendations to improve conservation. We use a variety of quantitative and field techniques to address our questions and prioritize communication of results to stakeholders.
Qualifications: The successful candidate will have a B.S and interest and experience in conservation or wildlife management. Strong field skills including experience working independently, organization, writing, and communication skills are also required.
Preferred qualifications include managing a team, working with small mammals and acoustic or camera trapping datasets, a strong record of academic achievements, and research experience. A basic knowledge of quantitative techniques, experience using R and GIS platforms, and a desire to improve on these skills will be viewed positively.
BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women, and other underrepresented groups in STEM are encouraged to apply. For more information, please email Dr. Amanda Cheeseman (Amanda.Cheeseman@sdstate.edu).
Application Deadline: Although applications will be accepted until the position is filled, candidates should submit their application by June 30, 2023 to ensure optimal
consideration. Send the following to Amanda.Cheeseman@sdstate.edu : CV, statement of research goals, and copy of transcripts. Documents should be submitted as a single PDF named; “your last name_wildlifeMS.pdf” (e.g., Cheeseman_WildlifeMS.pdf). The email should contain the subject line “Wildlife MS position.”