Description
The Escobar lab is searching for a highly motivated graduate student for a fully funded PhD position in the area of distributional ecology for a research project on topics that include remote sensing, landscape ecology, fieldwork in Virginia, and spatial modeling in a project to model the habitat of the bog turtle, a highly endangered species. Preference will be given to candidates with evident passion for these topics and quantitative and writing skills. In addition to research work, responsibilities will include acquiring teaching experience, raising extramural funding experience, and mentoring of undergraduate students.
The position is based within Dr. Luis Escobar laboratory in collaboration with Dr. Carola Haas and Dr. Emmanuel Frimpong in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, College of Natural Resources and the Environment, the No. 1’ranked natural resources program in the U.S. (by USA Today) for four years running. The Escobar group is highly collaborative and works with researchers in universities across the U.S. and abroad. This position includes full tuition, 12-month salary support, and fieldwork. Minorities and underrepresented groups in STEM are encouraged to apply.
Virginia Tech’s main campus is located in Blacksburg, Virginia, in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The New River Valley offers the charm of a small town combined with the modern conveniences of a metropolitan area. The thriving community boasts a plethora of unique and chain restaurants and stores, symphonies, theatres, historical attractions, museums, a vibrant night-life, sporting events, outdoor recreation activities, and a temperate climate. We have mountains to the west, the ocean to the east, and Washington D.C. to the north.
Required Qualifications
A prior MS in wildlife conservation, ecology, geography, statistics, remote sensing or any biological sciences or natural resources field.
The Escobar Laboratory has a long history of multidisciplinary research. Students from diverse academic backgrounds (e.g., biology, statistics, engineering, or related fields) with interest in joining the lab are encouraged to apply.
Applicants must have a strong work ethic; quantitative, oral, and written communication skills; high attention to detail; the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a culturally diverse team.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working with satellite-derived data and/or spatial statistics
A track record of scientific publications.
Interest to develop the capacity to work long hours in the field capturing cryptic reptiles
To apply
Send a single pdf file including: 1) a cover letter of no more than two pages that highlights your skills and expertise, research interests, interest in graduate school, career plans, and why we should consider your application; 2) curriculum vitae; 3) unofficial transcripts; 4) sample of scientific writing (e.g., a manuscript in preparation, thesis, published manuscript as the first author); and 5) contact information for 3 references who have worked closely with you and can explain your research skills and interests. Application consideration will begin on August 15, 2021 and will continue until the position is filled. References will only be contacted after applicants are notified. Formal application through the graduate school will eventually be required but we will request application from the selected candidates.
Contact Person
Contact Dr. Luis Escobar at escobar1@vt.edu for additional questions and to submit your application.
Website
https://fishwild.vt.edu/faculty/escobar.html
