Graduate Assistantship:Sage Grouse Connectivity and Energy Development

University of Wyoming

I have a newly funded project to determine how energy-related management
activities (oil/gas development and subsequent reclamation) influence
distribution and functional connectivity of Sage Grouse in Wyoming.
Isolated populations of Sage Grouse are unlikely to continue to persist over
time. Evaluating reclamation and conservation priorities in relation to
distribution and functional connectivity of Sage Grouse is a vital need. To
address this need, the project will integrate models of Sage Grouse
distribution and functional connectivity, then use this information create
tools that help managers prioritize reclamation and conservation activities.
This project will rely on both innovative niche models (distribution) and
landscape genetic approaches (functional connectivity). The goals of this
project are to provide science-based management tools and
technology-transfer to support Sage Grouse mitigation actions (avoiding
impacts and focusing reclamation efforts on high-value sites).

I am recruiting a PhD student for this project starting in August 2011. The
project includes a highly competitive 12-month stipend, tuition, fees,
health insurance, and research funds. The selected student will be in the
interdepartmental Program in Ecology (PiE; www.uwyo.edu/pie). Prospective
students with a background in ecology, natural resources, conservation
biology, landscape ecology and/or population genetics are encouraged to
apply. Evidence of robust quantitative/analytical skills (including spatial
modeling), strong work ethic, passion for investigating scientific
questions, ability to work under harsh field conditions and collaborative
skills will all be vital for the success of potential candidates.
Applications should be submitted by June 10th (early application is strongly
encouraged as review of applications will begin immediately).

Applicants should meet the following minimum requirements: MS degree or
other evidence of independent research, total GRE of 1100, and undergraduate
GPA of 3.3 (or MS degree). Applications should include: cover letter with
statement of research interests, CV, transcripts, GRE scores, and contact
information for three references. Please be sure to include any evidence
GIS, statistical modeling and/or population genetic analysis skills. The
packet can be sent as a pdf attachment to Dr. Melanie Murphy
(melanie.murphy@uwyo.edu). Please contact me if you have any questions.

University of Wyoming (www.uwyo.edu) is ideally located in Laramie, Wyoming
with easy access to excellent outdoor recreation opportunities and beautiful
field sites. In addition, the campus is only 1 hour from Fort Collins and 2
hours from Denver, CO.