PhD with wolves (Oregon, USA)

PhD Student Research Assistant: Carnivore community ecology and diet analysis with DNA metabarcoding on the colonizing front of wolves

The Levi Lab at Oregon State University is accepting applications for a PhD Graduate Assistantship. We are looking for a hard-working Ph.D. graduate student to begin in winter 2015 for dissertation research on cougar, bear, coyote, and bobcat community ecology and diet using scat-detection dogs and molecular methods, including individual identification and Illumina sequencing and DNA metabarcoding for diet analysis. This position combines strong field, lab, and analytical component. The student will work with Dr. Levi and with biologists from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Fieldwork will be based out of La Grande, Oregon, and the student should expect to live in La Grande for extended periods. This position is an excellent opportunity for students interested in carnivore ecology, conservation, and management, and for students interested in applying molecular methods to applied ecological and conservation problems.

The student should be accomplished in writing, PCR, statistics, and field and laboratory skills. Student must have MS degree except in exceptional circumstances. Preferred candidates will have previous experience working in a genetics lab, a demonstrated ability to work with GIS and R, and a
record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.

For more information or to apply, send (1) a letter of interest, (2) resume, (3) GRE scores, (4) transcripts, (5) writing sample, and (6) contact information (email and phone number) for three references to Prof. Taal Levi at Taal.Levi@oregonstate.edu.