Job Type: Student / postdoc
Salary Details: 22-25k
Deadline: Sep 20, 2023

We are seeking a motivated student interested in pursuing a MS OR PhD focused on bat ecology and conservation to join our team beginning January 2024.

The successful candidate will investigate the distribution and habitat associations of bat species with a particular emphasis on species of conservation concern. They/he/she will be expected to lead field work including mist netting and acoustic surveys across South Dakota, publish their findings in the peer-reviewed literature, attend and present at relevant conferences, and excel in their academic studies. The successful candidate may also assist with bat transmitter deployment and telemetry.

The student will be supported on a combination of teaching/ research assistantships for 2.5 years (MS track) or 4 years (PhD) with possible extension given project timelines. Stipend is set at $22k for MS track and $25k for PhD track with full tuition waiver. GRE scores not required for admission.

The Cheeseman lab focuses on understanding the relationships between wildlife and their habitats across space and through time with the goal of producing science informed management recommendations to improve conservation. We use a variety of quantitative and field techniques to address our questions and prioritize communication of results to stakeholders.

MS/PhD Qualifications: The successful candidate will have a BS (MS & PhD track) and MS (PhD track only) in a relevant field and interest and experience in conservation or wildlife management. A valid US driver’s license, strong field skills including experience working independently, organization, writing, and communication skills are also required. Preferred qualifications include record of peer review publications, managing a team, experience with mist netting and safe capture and handling of bat species, working with acoustic datasets, telemetry experience, a strong record of academic achievements, and research experience. A basic knowledge of quantitative techniques, experience using R and GIS platforms, and a desire to improve on these skills will be viewed positively.

HOW TO APPLY

Application Deadline: Although applications will be accepted until the position is filled,

candidates should submit their application by September 20, 2023 to ensure optimal consideration. Send the following to Amanda.Cheeseman@sdstate.edu: cover letter, CV, and copy of transcripts (unofficial transcripts ok). Documents should be submitted as a single PDF named; “your last name_Bat_Degree Of interest.pdf” (e.g., Cheeseman_Bat_PhD.pdf). The email should contain the subject line “Bat MS/PhD (select one) position.”