MS Research Assistantship

M.S. Assistantship – Roost Selection and Torpor Use by Urban/Suburban Northern Long-Eared Bats in Northeastern Indiana

Description

One highly qualified candidate is sought to conduct a radio-telemetry study on the roost habitat selection and torpor use of a northern long-eared bat maternity colony(ies) in an urban/suburban landscape in Northeastern Indiana (Fort Wayne, IN). This student will investigate what habitat this remnant colony of northerns is selecting in this landscape (unusual for northerns in Indiana) and how the species uses torpor in conjunction with their selection of roosts.

The successful applicant must secure a teaching assistantship with the Purdue University Fort Wayne’s Department of Biology, which would provide the students with a stipend of approximately $13,522 for the academic year (August – May) and includes a tuition fee remission benefit. The successful applicant will be responsible for dedicated fees each semester. A summer stipend of approximately $1900 will be available in the first summer and possible during the 2^nd summer.

 Field research starts May 2020 and course work and the assistantship will start in August 2020.

Qualifications

Character Qualifications

1. Keen interest in and passion for bat ecology and conservation
2. A high degree of character integrity (honest, mature, responsible, respectful)
3. A high degree of professionalism (self-motivated, hard-working, detail-oriented)
4. Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, ability to lead a research crew

Field Qualifications

1. Bat mist-netting experience is preferred, but not required
2. Rabies vaccinated is preferred, but not required
3. Radio-telemetry experience
4. Above average computer skills
5. Ability to carry heavy equipment over challenging/mosquito infested terrain
6. Orienteering and GPS experience
7. Valid driver’s license and good driving skills

Academic Requirements

1. B.S. in Biology or related field with a clear link to Ecology and/or Wildlife Biology (as evidenced by courses taken)
2. Undergraduate G.P.A. of > 3.0
3. GRE scores: > 2.5 raw score on the Analytical Writing Section, > 25^th percentile in the Quantitative Analysis and Verbal Reasoning Sections

Additional Remarks

• This project will include long days (12+ hours), late nights (mist-netting until 3am) and a lot of hiking and wading through chest-high water
• Housing is not provided, summer stipend is meant to help with this

To apply, please send Dr. Scott Bergeson (bergesos@pfw.edu) the following documents by the application deadline:

• Letter of interest detailing your research interests, career goals, and interest in the position
• Curriculum Vitae (including G.P.A. and G.R.E. scores)
• Contact information for 3 references
• Unofficial transcripts

For more information:

         Purdue University Fort Wayne: https://www.pfw.edu/; Bergeson Wildlife Lab

Application Deadline: December 15, 2019

Applications will be reviewed as they are received