PhD Graduate Research Assistantship: Whip-poor-will Bioacoustic Surveys and Insect Sampling to Assess Forest and Woodland Management in Missouri

A Ph.D. research assistantship with Dr. Tom Bonnot (US Fish and Wildlife Service) and Dr. Frank Thompson (US Forest Service) will be available beginning August 2023 to design and conduct a study of Whip-poor-will occupancy and nocturnal insect populations across multiple landscapes in Missouri. The student will use autonomous recording units (ARUs) across a variety of forest and woodland management practices and to inform future management and conservation efforts for this rapidly declining species. The student will be responsible for designing the study, coordinating the collection of data through insect sampling and deployment of ARUs, and analyzing those data. The student will also supervise two field technicians and be expected to work collaboratively with project partners, including Missouri Department of Conservation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and University of Missouri.

Candidates must have a B.S. and M.S. in wildlife science or management, natural resources, ecology, or a closely related discipline, a GPA > 3.2, and a valid US driver license (without restrictions).

Competitive applicants will have previous field experience with Whip-poor-wills and/or use of ARUs in a research setting; previous field and bird handling experience; experience planning and coordinating daily field activities; experience conducting independent research. Essential qualifications include excellent writing and communications skills; record of publication; experience with quantitative methods and R; and experience with technical writing and/or publication. The successful applicant will be expected to publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals and present papers at scientific meetings.

Benefits package includes a stipend of $25,000 per year, a tuition waiver, and insurance

Start date: Between July and August 2023

To apply, please send a cover letter, curriculum vitae or resume, contact information for 3 references, and unofficial transcripts to Thomas Bonnot (bonnott@missouri.edu) by March 1, 2023. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.