PhD position in avian conservation genomics

Inquiries are invited for a PhD assistantship to examine the effects of native plants and mosquito abatement on diet and fitness in Carolina Chickadees and Carolina Wrens in urban yards of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Additional questions could be included depending on the candidate’s experience and interest. Prospective students would need to apply for and compete against other applicants for a Gilbert Assistantship in the LSU School of Renewable Natural Resources, due 1 Feb 2024. A Gilbert Assistantship covers stipend (~30K per year), tuition, fees, and up to 20K in research costs. Qualifications: an excellent academic record, experience with genetic analyses (lab and statistical) including DNA metabarcoding, experience coordinating and collecting field data (including bird handling), excellent writing and organizational skills, and ability to work in a collaborative group. Research will be in collaboration with Dr. Erik Johnson, Director of Conservation Science, Audubon Delta, the regional field office of the National Audubon Society. Applicants interested in this opportunity should first contact Dr. Sabrina Taylor, School of Renewable Natural Resources, Louisiana State University, staylor at lsu.edu, and should send a cover letter, CV, and a list of 3 references (with phone #s and/or email addresses). Equal Employment Opportunity applies to this position.