An MSc position is available at the University of Florida with Dr. Carolina Baruzzi in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. The project will examine small mammal interactions with land management practices.
Small mammals can be highly affected by changes in habitat structure resulting from land management. In turn, small mammals can influence the chosen habitat through processes such as microbial and seed dispersal. The project will estimate density of small mammals and patterns of microbial dispersal generated by small mammals across a gradient of forest ages undergoing restoration, which will help evaluate small mammal influence on restoration practices.
Additional research will be developed as part of the selected candidate’s interests including, but not limited to, seed predation/dispersal and responses to fire regimes. Research for this project will involve small mammal trapping and monitoring with camera traps.
Qualifications: Required qualifications: – Applicants with a BSc degree in ecology, biology, zoology, or related discipline – Willingness to work outdoors in harsh weather conditions – Valid U.S. driver’s license Preferred qualifications: – Experience with small mammal sampling – Experience with camera trap sampling – Statistical experience and familiarity with programming in R
Application: To be considered for this position, send a single PDF to Carolina Baruzzi (carolina.baruzzi@ufl.edu) including: – Cover letter highlighting how your research interests relate to the advertised position, relevant prior experience, and career goals – Curriculum vitae – Contact information for 3 professional references. Last Date to Apply: 06/16/2023
The student can be based at the University of Florida main campus in Gainesville, FL, or the North Florida Research and Education Center near Tallahassee, FL. Location will be discussed with the advisor and largely based on student’s preference.
Contact Person: Carolina Baruzzi: Contact eMail carolina.baruzzi@ufl.edu