An M.S. research assistantship in Ichthyology or Herpetology is available through the Center of Excellence for Field Biology (CEFB) at Austin Peay State University (APSU) with an intended start date in August 2015.
The student will be supported by and assist in activities of an NSF-funded Collections in Support of Biological Research grant to improve the infrastructure and utility of the David Snyder Museum of Zoology and APSU Herbarium. Although the specific thesis research topic is open, the successful applicant will be expected to engage in natural history collections-based research related to the ecology or evolution of amphibians, reptiles, or fishes.
The assistantship includes payment of tuition and a 12-month stipend for two years (totaling $16,800/year). Additional resources such as field vehicles and equipment will be available for use in research through the CEFB. Renewal of this award in year two will be based on performance in the preceding year.
Austin Peay State University is located in Clarksville, TN, in one of the most biologically diverse regions of the southeastern U.S. For more information about the Center of Excellence for Field Biology, visit: http://www.apsu.edu/field-biology. For more information about the graduate program in Biology visit: http://www.apsu.edu/biology/graduate.
Required qualifications include
(1) a B.S. in Biology, Ecology, Evolution, or a related field,
(2) excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills, and
(3) strong self-motivation and ability to work well independently and with a team.
Previous research experience and work in specimen curation or museum operations are not required, but applicants possessing these skills will be favored.
To apply submit the following as a single pdf file: (1) statement of research background and interests, including an explanation of your interests in museum collections and research; (2) curriculum vitae; (3) names and contact information for three academic or professional references; (4) unofficial GRE scores, and (5) an unofficial copy of your college transcripts to Dr. Rebecca Johansen at johansenr@apsu.edu by the 25th February 2015.
Review of applications will begin on 25th February 2015 and continue until the position is filled.
