The plant-animal interaction lab at the Department of Biology, University of Central Arkansas is seeking candidates for a MS project investigating the threats to pollinator habitat and plant-pollinator interactions along a gradient of landscape development. The student will be advised by Dr Opeyemi Adedoja.
The MS student will record plant-pollinator interactions and also estimate pollinator diversity, as well as the abundance and species richness of wildflowers across natural grasslands in different landscape contexts across central Arkansas. The student will also sort insect pollinators into functional groups and measure specific traits such as body size using intertegular distance of bees in the lab.
Fieldwork may involve working in remote natural areas, driving to study sites, and handling insects. The preferred start date is Spring 2024, although a Fall 2023 start date may be possible. Prior research experience is preferred but not required.
Qualifications: The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and must be willing to develop skills in plant and insect taxonomy, scientific writing and quantitative analysis. Candidates with strong background in Entomology, Zoology, Botany, Environmental Science or related fields are encouraged to apply.
To apply: If you are interested in this position, send an email with subject “MS Position (YOUR NAME)” to Dr Opeyemi Adedoja (oadedoja@uca.edu ) with a single PDF. The PDF should include your CV, a brief description of your interest in the position, contact information for three references and transcripts. Review of applications will begin July 14 and continue until the position is filled.
Salary: The MS program in Biology at UCA provides a ~$10,000/academic year teaching stipend (Fall and Spring) and a full tuition and fee waivers for coursework.
Contact Person: Dr Opeyemi Adedoja, Contact eMail oadedoja@uca.edu