Graduate Opportunity: Avian Science Center/University of Montana

The Avian Science Center (ASC; http://www.cfc.umt.edu/asc/), part of the Wildlife Biology Program at the University of Montana (UM), invites applications from highly motivated individuals to pursue a PhD degree and conduct innovative, high-impact research. Individuals pursuing a MS degree will also be considered. The student will have the flexibility to develop independent research that aligns with the mission of ASC: to promote informed decision-making based on ecological research on avian species for the conservation of natural resources. Research  in the ASC falls into broad, overlapping categories of 1) adaptive management monitoring, 2) landscape-scale conservation, and 3) advancing methods to inform avian conservation. The prospective student  has flexibility to develop their own project idea within these categories for their graduate research. Projects within these programs are most often in partnership with natural resource agencies and organizations. The anticipated start date for this project is Spring 2022.

Qualifications: Applicant must have a Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, biology, ecology, statistics, or a related field. Strong quantitative skills and programming experience is highly preferred.

How to apply: Interested individuals should email Dr. Victoria J. Dreitz (asc@umontana.edu) the following information as 1 attached file (PDF is preferred) with “PhD position” in the subject line.  Applications will be reviewed upon receipt until the position is filled: 

1)      Cover letter or statement of purpose outlining the following: a)  Alignment of research interests with ASC research programs, b)      Proposed idea(s) for graduate research, c) Career goals, d) Contributions to diversity, equity and inclusion during professional experiences, and e) Expectations of the graduate school experience; 2) Resume/CV, and 3) Names and contact information for 3 references.