PhD Position: Large Mammal Population Dynamics and Monitoring: Fairbanks, AK (w/ field work at Prince of Wales Island, AK)

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Agency

University of Alaska Fairbanks

Location

Fairbanks, AK (w/ field work at Prince of Wales Island, AK)

Job Category

Graduate Assistantships

Salary

$30,000 + tuition

Start Date

08/15/2023

Last Date to Apply

11/30/2022

Description

We are seeking a Ph.D. student to lead a collaborative project between the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and the University of Alaska-Fairbanks to improve our understanding of population dynamics and to develop a robust monitoring framework for large mammals (wolves, black bear, black-tailed deer) in southeastern Alaska. The project will take place on Prince of Wales Island and will entail 1) the use of remote cameras and recently developed analytical frameworks to estimate large mammal abundance from camera imagery, 2) the application of novel analytical approaches to integrate data streams such as non-invasively collected genetic samples and radio telemetry to improve abundance estimation approaches, and 3) the development of a robust multi-species monitoring framework. The selected student will also have the opportunity to explore additional topics of interest such as predator-prey dynamics and multi-species habitat selection and occupancy.

The student will be supervised by Dr. Shawn Crimmins (University of Alaska Fairbanks) and Dr. Gretchen Roffler (Alaska Department of Fish and Game) and will also work with collaborators from Oklahoma State University. The student will be based in the Alaska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit in Fairbanks, but will spend summers on Prince of Wales Island to coordinate field data collection. The student will be responsible for coordinating field efforts and for developing novel approaches for abundance estimation and monitoring that could be applied not only to large mammals, but potentially to other species in southeastern Alaska.

Qualifications

M.S. degree is wildlife biology, ecology, or equivalent. Experience with population and/or demographic modeling. Background in Bayesian statistics preferred. Ability to work in adverse field conditions and contribute substantially to logistical development, project planning and implementation. An interest in applied research, wildlife monitoring, and population ecology is strongly preferred. A strong academic record (GPA > 3.0, GRE > 50th percentile) and professional background is required. The ability to work with a diverse group of stakeholders (landowners, agency personnel, academic personnel) is required.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to Shawn Crimmins.

Contact Person

Shawn Crimmins

Contact Phone

9074745067

Contact eMail

smcrimmins2@alaska.edu

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