MS Research Assistantships in river restoration (USA)

MS Research Assistantships in Central California
San Joaquin River Restoration – Chinook Salmon Floodplain Production Study

Two MS-level research assistantships are available for highly qualified and motivated students starting in August 2015 at California State University-Fresno (Fresno State).  Students will participate in a multi-year federally-funded collaborative project under the larger scope of the San
Joaquin River Restoration (restoresjr.org), one of the largest river restoration projects undertaken in North America.  The specific project and assistantships will be in collaboration with Cramer Fish Sciences, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation,  the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and others.

Primary project goals include assessing San Joaquin River floodplain
habitats that foster survival and production of juvenile Chinook salmon.  We
are also addressing issues relating spawning locations on several scales as
well as the ecology of juvenile Chinook salmon in mainstem habitats.

Candidates should have broad training in the aquatic sciences, including
knowledge of the physical, chemical, and biological conditions of migrating
salmonid habitat.  Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in biology,
ecology, or related field.  Additional relevant work and/or research
experience beyond the degree is desired.  A valid U.S. driver's license and
good driving record is also required.

Successful applicants should demonstrate evidence of being able to work
collaboratively and independently, as well as the ability to effectively
supervise undergraduate researchers and technicians.  Experience with data
analysis including multivariate techniques is desirable.  Two years of
research support of is available for 2/3 of the year which can be augmented
with internal & external scholarships and a teaching assistantship if
desired.  Research equipment, supplies, and research travel are well covered
by both external and internal funding.

Fresno is an affordable area in central California at the base of the Sierra
Nevada Mountains.  Yosemite National Park is 50mi north of Fresno, and of
two other national parks are within a 1.5hrs drive.

To apply, send an e-mail message (and attachments) describing research
interests and career goals; names, phone numbers, and email addresses of 3
references; academic history and GRE scores to Dr. Steve Blumenshine:
sblumens@csufresno.edu  Phone: 559-278-8770.  All application materials
should be received no later than Dec 15, 2014.