Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution and Behavior AT BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY – Using spatial prioritization to improve conservation of Aplomado Falcons

Position description: The student will join an interdisciplinary group including Dr. Jen Cruz (http://www.quantitativeconservationlab.com) and Dr. Matt Williamson (https://www.spaseslab.com/) from BSU, and Dr. Jennifer McCabe from The Peregrine Fund to lead a project that integrates spatial ecology, conservation biology and social science to create spatial prioritization scenarios to guide future conservation efforts for Aplomado Falcons in coastal Texas. The student will have access to existing data on Aplomado falcon nest success, probability distribution maps for two potential predators (Great orned Owls and Barn Owls), habitat metrics from remote sensing (including canopy height from LIDAR) and land ownership data. The student will be able to contribute to additional data collection for Aplomado Falcon nest success, owl distributions, and community surveys. The position will be based in Boise, Idaho and focus on the development of spatial prioritization scenarios using graph theory to help guide future restoration efforts, land acquisitions and captive-bred releases of Aplomado Falcons in coastal south Texas.

Qualifications: Seeking a self-motivated, hard-working, independent, and creative thinker who has experience with relevant research including in spatial ecology, conservation biology, social science, or quantitative ecology. We seek someone with experience analyzing relevant data (including code development) and a desire to become an expert in rigorous spatial prioritization analysis. Applicants must have excellent communication skills and experience in writing scientific literature, evidenced by relevant publications. Experience with avian ecology field work, or social science will also be advantageous. Experience working with the public or with collaborators is also desirable. Minimum Qualifications: a B.S. degree in Ecology or a Masters in a related field.

Support: Includes a 12-month graduate assistantship for four years (USD$28,000/year), a tuition and fee waiver, health insurance, and some research funding.

To apply: Please email Dr. Jen Cruz at jencruz@boisestate.edu with the subject line “Aplomado Falcon PhD application”, a single file attachment (include your full name in the file name) that includes: (1) a cover letter that highlights research interests relevant to this position, qualifications and experience, and future career goals. Please include details of your level of experience with scientific writing, code development, and working with the public and with collaborators; (2) sample code (3) a CV that includes contact information for three references, and (4) unofficial transcripts. Applications are due by Oct 18th, 2024. Online interviews of a select pool of applicants will occur during 24-28th of Oct, and the finalist will be invited to submit a formal application to Boise State’s E.E.B. Ph.D. program by Nov 10th, 2024. Admission must be approved by the Graduate Dean. The position is part of a late-admission process, and is expected to start in Spring, 2025.

The Biology Department at Boise State University: The Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior Ph.D. program at Boise State University (https://www.boisestate.edu/eeb/) offers a wide diversity of courses in ecology, geosciences, as well as human dimensions, and provides unique mentorship and training opportunities to enhance students’ understanding of ecology, evolution and behavior by a group of faculty and students committed to team-based, actionable research that draws from multiple disciplines and addresses real-world environmental challenges. The position provides access to a network of valuable connections in academia, federal and state agencies, nonprofits and NGOs, as well as international organizations, all dedicated to providing transformative research and educational experiences suitable for diverse career opportunities.

The Peregrine Fund: Established by falconers in 1970 to save the Peregrine Falcon from extinction, The Peregrine Fund has a proven track record of saving species on the brink and leveraging sound science to make effective conservation management decisions worldwide. Our work spans five continents, and we partner with indigenous people, governments, and NGOs to promote sustainable conservation and strategies that preserve lands and heritage for communities around the globe. We also foster local capacity to ensure conservation efforts can continue long after we leave. We have worked in coastal south Texas since the 1980’s to reintroduce and conserve Aplomado Falcons and their habitats.

Boise: is the vibrant capital of the State of Idaho, nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The city has many opportunities for excellent outdoor activities year round and a thriving arts and entertainment culture. In 2017, US News and World report ranked Boise the 12th best city to live in the United States. To learn more, view “Visit Boise” at: https://www.cityofboise.org/