About the position: The research group of Dr. Sydne Record seeks applicants for one M.S or Ph.D. position in Ecology and Environmental Sciences at the University of Maine in Orono in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation Biology starting in September 2024. Our research group focuses on population and community ecology from a biogeographical perspective. We apply computational methods to data from various environmental observatory networks to explore ecological dynamics across space and time.
Required Qualifications: We seek applicants with a B.S. in biology, ecology, environmental data science, or other relevant discipline with a G.P.A. >3.0. The ideal applicant will have quantitative skills (e.g., R, Python, geographic information systems) and interest in learning new skills, previous research experience and a strong background in ecology and environmental science, strong writing, creativity, and an excellent track record in seeing projects through from start to finish. International applicants must meet UMaine Graduate School requirements for teaching assistant minimum English proficiency test scores.
Desired Qualifications: Preference will be given to applicants with experience or demonstrated interest in field ecology and quantitative methods, ideally with a M.S. in environmental data science or ecology if applying for a Ph.D. Preferred applicants will show evidence of publishing from their prior research or M.S. thesis. Preference will be given to applicants who have a strong record of communication as evidenced by conference presentations and prior team science collaborations. Prior experience or exposure through coursework with the following quantitative skills: GIS, spatial analysis, processing of remotely sensed data, machine learning, and maximum likelihood and/or Bayesian estimation methods. Experience using R and/or Python for data management, analysis, and presentation of results.
Salary: For M.S., approximately $22,500 per year, with anticipated three semesters of Research Assistantship plus two semesters of Teaching Assistantship. For Ph.D., approximately $26,500 per year, with anticipated six semesters of Research Assistantship plus two semesters of Teaching Assistantship. In all summers, students will be on a Research Assistantship. Tuition and a minimum of half of health insurance premiums will be covered by the project.
Timeline: Review of applications will begin as they are received. For full consideration please apply by 5/30/24. The successful candidate must be available to start on 9/3/2024.
Contact: Email sydne.record@maine.edu with the subject line “Quantitative Ecology Graduate Assistantship” if you have questions.
