Graduate students interested in wildlife ecology, conservation biology, population genetics, and advanced ecological modeling have an exceptional opportunity to join one of the most comprehensive wild turkey research projects currently underway in the United States. The Genetic Research and Applied Spatial Ecology Lab within the Advanced Environmental Research Institute (AERI) at the University of North Texas (UNT) is recruiting a highly motivated MS or PhD student for a funded Research Assistantship beginning in January 2027.
Supported by the National Wild Turkey Federation and conducted in collaboration with numerous state and federal agencies, this project combines large-scale field ecology, disease ecology, nutritional ecology, genetics, and advanced quantitative analysis to better understand wild turkey populations across the United States.
This fully funded PhD/MS Research Assistantship at the University of North Texas presents a rare opportunity to participate in one of the most ambitious wild turkey conservation studies currently being conducted in North America. Combining field ecology, conservation genetics, disease ecology, nutritional science, and advanced statistical modeling, the project offers exceptional training for students seeking careers in wildlife research and applied conservation science. For aspiring wildlife biologists and ecologists, this position provides both the scientific depth and practical experience necessary to build a successful research career.
Position Overview:
- Position Title PhD/MS Research Assistantship – Wild Turkey Genetics, Diet, Disease, Demography, and Nesting Ecology
- Institution University of North Texas (UNT)
- Research Unit Genetic Research and Applied Spatial Ecology Lab
- Research Institute Advanced Environmental Research Institute (AERI)
- Degree Programs Available: Master of Science (MS) & Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Start Date January 2027
- Funding Source National Wild Turkey Federation
- Employment Type Research Assistantship and Teaching Assistantship Combination
- Location Denton, Texas, USA
- Application Deadline June 30, 2026
About the Research Project
Wild turkey populations are ecologically important and economically valuable across North America. However, many regions have experienced population fluctuations that remain poorly understood. To address these challenges, researchers are launching a large-scale national study that integrates multiple scientific disciplines to investigate factors influencing turkey population health and long-term sustainability. The project includes collaborations with:
- National Wild Turkey Federation
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD)
- Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR)
- Three Rivers Park District
- Multiple state and federal wildlife agencies
The study spans several geographic regions, with primary focus areas in Minnesota and West Texas.
Research Objectives
This ambitious project seeks to answer several critical conservation questions.
Primary Goals
1. National-Scale Wild Turkey Genetics Assessment
Researchers will evaluate genetic diversity and population structure across wild turkey populations throughout the United States.
2. Diet and Nutritional Ecology Analysis
Using advanced fecal metabarcoding techniques, the project will investigate dietary patterns and nutritional resources utilized by wild turkeys.
3. Disease Ecology Research
Scientists will assess disease prevalence and pathogen impacts on turkey populations and demographic performance.
4. Population Dynamics Modeling
Advanced quantitative methods will be used to understand how diet, disease, and environmental conditions affect population growth and survival.
5. Nesting and Movement Ecology
Researchers will examine:
- Nest placement decisions
- Habitat selection
- Survival rates
- Reproductive success
- Local movement patterns
- Space-use behavior
Particular emphasis will be placed on urban-to-agricultural landscapes in Minnesota.
Field Research Responsibilities
The selected student will play a major leadership role in field operations.
Winter Fieldwork Activities
Field responsibilities include:
- Capturing wild turkeys
- Handling and processing birds safely
- Applying tracking devices and tags
- Collecting biological samples
- Conducting winter trapping operations
- Supervising field technicians
- Coordinating research logistics
- Collaborating with agency partners
Fieldwork will often occur under challenging winter conditions and in remote locations.
Laboratory and Analytical Responsibilities
In addition to fieldwork, the graduate student will gain extensive laboratory and quantitative research experience.
Genetics and Molecular Ecology
Research activities may include:
- DNA extraction
- Molecular laboratory workflows
- Population genetic analyses
- Genetic mark-recapture studies
Nutritional Ecology
Students will conduct:
- Fecal metabarcoding
- Diet composition analyses
- Nutritional resource assessments
Disease Ecology
Responsibilities include:
- Pathogen screening
- Disease surveillance
- Wildlife health assessments
Quantitative Modeling
Students will work with advanced statistical and ecological modeling approaches such as:
- N-mixture Models
- Integrated Population Models (IPMs)
- Home-range analysis
- Spatially explicit movement models
- Population demographic modeling
Why This Assistantship Stands Out
Few graduate projects provide training across such a diverse range of disciplines.
Students will gain experience in:
- Wildlife capture and handling
- Conservation genetics
- Molecular ecology
- Disease ecology
- Nutritional ecology
- Spatial ecology
- Quantitative wildlife modeling
- Applied conservation science
This interdisciplinary training can significantly enhance future career opportunities in academia, government agencies, conservation organizations, and environmental consulting.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic preparation and a genuine interest in wildlife research.
Required Qualifications
Candidates must possess:
- A BS or MS degree in Wildlife Ecology, Ecology, Biology, Conservation Science, or a closely related discipline.
- Minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Strong interest in wildlife ecology and conservation research.
- Previous wildlife field experience.
- Excellent organizational skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Competitive applicants may also have:
- Experience trapping and handling wildlife.
- Experience with Galliformes (turkeys, grouse, quail, pheasants, and related species).
- Laboratory experience.
- Coding or programming skills.
- Statistical analysis experience.
- GIS and spatial ecology experience.
- Research publication experience.
Additional Requirements
Applicants must be willing to:
- Travel extensively.
- Work long hours during field seasons.
- Operate state-owned vehicles.
- Conduct fieldwork in remote environments.
Funding and Graduate Support
The selected student will be supported through a combination of:
Research Assistantship (RA)
Funding dedicated to research activities and project responsibilities.
Teaching Assistantship (TA)
Graduate teaching opportunities within the University of North Texas Biology Program. This combined funding structure provides both financial support and professional development experience.
About the University of North Texas
The University of North Texas is a nationally recognized Carnegie R1 research institution with approximately 47,000 students.
Its Biology Department offers:
- MS in Biology
- PhD in Biology
Graduate students benefit from strong interdisciplinary collaboration and research-focused training.
About the Advanced Environmental Research Institute (AERI)
AERI is recognized as a University Research Institute of Excellence focused on producing actionable science that addresses real-world environmental and conservation challenges.
The institute emphasizes:
- Applied research
- Stakeholder engagement
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Workforce preparation
Living in Denton, Texas
Denton consistently ranks among the most desirable college towns in Texas.
Residents enjoy:
- Vibrant music and arts communities
- Diverse dining options
- Weekly farmers markets
- Live entertainment venues
- Access to outdoor recreation
Nearby natural attractions include:
- Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center
- Lake Ray Roberts State Park
- LBJ National Grasslands
The city is also located within 45 minutes of the Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their materials directly to Dr. Andrew Gregory Email: andrew.gregory@unt.edu
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Cover Letter Suggestions
Applicants should discuss:
- Research interests
- Wildlife field experience
- Laboratory skills
- Quantitative analysis experience
- Coding and programming experience
- Career goals
- Interest in wild turkey ecology and conservation
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until a suitable candidate is identified.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this position fully funded?
Yes. The selected student will receive funding through a combination of Research Assistantship and Teaching Assistantship support.
Can students apply for either an MS or PhD?
Yes. The opportunity is open to both Master’s and PhD applicants.
What wildlife species is the project focused on?
The research focuses on wild turkey populations across the United States.
Is previous turkey research required?
No. However, experience handling wildlife, particularly Galliformes, is highly desirable.
What GPA is required?
Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.5.
What types of analytical methods will students learn?
Students may gain experience with population genetics, fecal metabarcoding, disease screening, N-mixture models, Integrated Population Models, and spatial ecology analyses.
Will extensive fieldwork be required?
Yes. Significant field responsibilities, particularly winter trapping and sampling operations in Minnesota, are a major component of the project.
Is coding experience necessary?
Coding experience is not mandatory but is considered a strong advantage during candidate evaluation.
What career paths does this assistantship support?
Graduates will be well-positioned for careers in wildlife research, conservation agencies, academia, environmental consulting, natural resource management, and governmental wildlife programs.
Who should applications be sent to?
Applications and inquiries should be directed to Dr. Andrew Gregory via andrew.gregory@unt.edu.
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