Graduate Assistantship; Amphibian & Disease Dynamics; CO State University

Job Description:         This Ph.D. project involves investigating factors influencing boreal toad populations and associated dynamics of the amphibian chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) to inform management decisions. The project involves collaboration among Colorado State University faculty, the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS), and state and federal agencies in Colorado.  Specific focus will be on analyzing existing amphibian and chytrid monitoring data to explore amphibian and disease dynamics, related field work to explore questions developed by the student related to amphibian and disease dynamics, and targeted experimental studies to determine the relationship between pathogen abundance/density and detection using non-target organisms.  The project may include recommendations for optimizing current monitoring programs and developing a framework for using decision-analytic tools to be used in future conservation and management decisions.

Qualifications:             B.S. and M.S. related to wildlife biology or ecology; or mathematics, statistics, or management science.  GPA > 3.5, Combined Quantitative and Verbal GRE scores > 1200 (or average percentile score> 75%).  Applicants should be highly motivated with a strong work ethic, well-developed oral and written communication skills, and an excellent academic background.  Preference will be given to students with a proven publication record.  Advanced skills in occupancy modeling or decision analysis are highly desirable.

Salary:                         Starting $21,500-$22,500/year with limited benefits. Tuition included.

Starting date:              January of 2012 is preferred, but applicants that cannot start until Fall semester of 2012 will be considered.

Last date to apply:      October 15, 2011, or until suitable candidate is found. 

To apply:                     Applicants should create a single document (e.g., a Word or pdf document) that includes a brief letter of interest, CV/resume, unofficial transcripts, unofficial general GRE scores, and a list of three references and their contact information.  The name of the file should contain the first and last name of the applicant.  This file should be sent to Dr. Larissa Bailey (llbailey@colostate.edu). 

Applications will be screened until the October 15, 2011 end date, at which time letters of recommendation will be requested from those on the short list.

Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding affirmative action requirements.  The Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity is located in 101 Student Services.  To assist Colorado State University in meeting its affirmative action responsibilities, ethnic minorities, women, and other protected class members are encouraged to apply and to so identify themselves