Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship in Stream Drying, Drought, and Aquatic-Terrestrial Subsidies, University of Nevada

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) – Nevada Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit is seeking a Ph.D. student to investigate the interactive effects of land management, climate warming, and drought on Great Basin dryland aquatic ecosystems.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will conduct empirical and modeling studies to:

  • Characterize physical and biological mechanisms driving aquatic habitat dynamics and productivity.
  • Design and implement a multi-scale field and/or experimental research project exploring interactions between hydrologic regimes, flow permanence, and stream productivity (e.g., in-situ invertebrate production, reciprocal subsidies, fish growth, and biomass).
  • Develop methods for mapping the distribution of cross-ecosystem subsidies, applicable across watersheds to track ecological water availability changes caused by drought.

The project is part of a USGS-led initiative to create a socio-ecological watershed condition and drought vulnerability assessment framework for the Western U.S. The Ph.D. student will collaborate with aquatic and terrestrial ecologists, climate scientists, social scientists, graduate students, and support staff (including lab managers and undergraduate technicians).

The position will require close coordination with university, state, federal, and tribal partners. Therefore, strong communication skills are essential for success.

Qualifications

  • A M.S. degree in fisheries biology, aquatic ecology, or a closely related field.
  • Preferred experience includes:
    • Sampling freshwater invertebrates, fishes, and aquatic/riparian habitats.
    • Interest in ecohydrology, aquatic food webs, and freshwater fish ecology.
    • Strong quantitative skills and communication abilities.
  • Candidates with practical field and laboratory research experience and a demonstrated or committed ability to publish and disseminate research findings will be highly competitive.

Salary and Benefits

  • Full financial support, including:
    • Stipend
    • Tuition waiver
    • Student health benefits
  • Duration: 4+ years

Start Date and Application Deadline

  • Start Date: January 2025 (preferred).
  • Closing Date: Open until filled.

How to Apply

Send the following documents via email to Dr. Jeff Falke at jfalke@unr.edu:

  1. Cover letter detailing your professional interests and experience.
  2. CV (Curriculum Vitae).
  3. Unofficial transcripts.
  4. Contact information for three references.

Additional project information is available upon request.

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