Master’s Research Assistantship 2023 – USA | Forestry & Entomology | Fully Funded
For those who are interested in the ecology and conservation of East Texas bumble bees, an interesting opportunity is offered as part of the Master’s Research Assistantship Program. The purpose of this study, which is being carried out at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU), is to determine how restored upland game bird habitats affect bumble bee populations. This study, led by Dr. Reuber Antoniazzi and Dr. Daniel Bennett, provides an opportunity to further knowledge of bumble bee health as well as habitat restoration.
Position Details for Master’s Research Assistantship
The Master’s Graduate Research Assistantship at SFASU is set to start in either the Fall 2023 or the Spring 2024. A $1,700 monthly stipend will be given to the chosen applicant for a period of two years. Through the SFA GRA/GTA scholarship program, the program covers for half of the resident tuition costs; the remaining half is the student’s responsibility.
Research Focus
The declining populations of several North American bumble bee species are one of the main ecological issues. The objective of this study for Master’s Research Assistantship Program is to evaluate the wellbeing of several bumble bee populations in the East Texas area.
It also looks at the relationship between upland game bird habitat restoration initiatives and the preservation of other species that serve as umbrella species.
Research Objectives
How the restoration of habitats for upland game birds affects pollinators, particularly bumble bees, is the main topic driving this research. The study will examine the distribution, ecology, and conservation status of bumble bees while contrasting the outcomes of habitats for upland game birds that have been restored and those that have not.
Additionally, it will look at how bumble bees are related to certain habitats and what environmental elements support their variety and abundance.
Desired Qualifications
Those interested in ecology, entomology, botany, wildlife management, complex networks, or conservation biology would benefit most from this study opportunity.
By the start date, applicants should have obtained a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline. It would be ideal if you were skilled at using R for statistical analysis and had a strong interest in the ecology and taxonomy of native bees.
There will be a lot of fieldwork and laboratory work involved in the research, so initiative, determination, and attention to detail are key requirements. The ideal applicant should like working both independently and collaboratively, have a strong work ethic, and be adaptable to outdoor working environments and the temperature in the southern US.
Long hours will be spent sorting, pinning, and identifying pollinators in the lab as part of the job. A legitimate, unrestricted US driver’s licence is necessary.
Institute Information
In the East Texas Pineywoods area of Nacogdoches, Texas, is where Stephen F. Austin State University is located. The oldest town in Texas is Nacogdoches, which has a long history that extends to the founding of Spanish missions. SFASU is a comprehensive university dedicated to providing outstanding instruction, research, and service.
With over 13,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled, the institution provides a large selection of degree programs, including 40 master’s and 3 doctorate programs.
Numerous degree programs in forestry are available at SFASU’s Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture, with specialisations in Forest Management, Wildlife Management, Human Dimensions, Urban, Fire, and Agroforestry.
Additionally, the university offers degrees in geospatial science, agriculture, and environmental sciences. In Fall 2023, SFASU will join the University of Texas System, pending legislative approval.
Diversity and Inclusion Statement
Diversity and inclusion are not just empty platitudes at SFASU; they are firm promises. The institution holds that promoting inclusion and valuing diversity are crucial for raising active citizens both locally and worldwide.
SFASU is committed to fostering a campus environment that promotes and respects diversity while cultivating a sense of community. Each Lumberjack’s distinctive traits are actively supported and celebrated by SFASU’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
The Stephen F. Austin State University is an employer and educator committed to diversity and equal opportunity. In accordance with legal requirements, the institution is committed to excellence through diversity and accords equal opportunity to all competent candidates. This includes applicants who are physically or mentally disabled.
Applicants are advised to get in touch with the Human Resources department for support if they need any accommodations made throughout the hiring process due to an impairment or limitation.
Required Documents
A thorough CV, unofficial transcripts, a cover letter detailing their research interests and experience, and, if possible, GRE scores should all be submitted by interested candidates. Candidates must also submit the names and contact details for three references. Additionally included is a writing example.
Application Procedure
All application materials should be combined into a single PDF file and emailed to Dr. Reuber Antoniazzi at Reuber.Antoniazzi@sfasu.edu.
Please be aware that any employment offer is subject to the university’s verification of all qualifications and other necessary details, including a criminal background check. Should you have any questions or require further information, feel free to reach out to Dr. Reuber Antoniazzi at Reuber.Antoniazzi@sfasu.edu or Dr. Daniel Bennett at bennettdj@sfasu.edu.
We appreciate you taking into consideration our excellent research opportunity to support the ecology and conservation of bumble bees in East Texas. We are eager to review your application and perhaps welcome you to Stephen F. Austin State University as a member of our research team.
Application Deadline
Applications will be reviewed starting from June 15, 2023, until the position is filled. The Master’s Research Assistantship Position’s perfect start date is in August 2023, while a start in January 2024 can also be taken into consideration.
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