Lawson Lab, New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, New Mexico State University · New Mexico · assistantship · posted 21 days ago
*Project title:* Lesser Prairie-Chicken translocation and spatial ecology *Location: *Las Cruces + Milnesand, New Mexico *Application portal: * https://airtable.com/appMyayGhqoDdyQ2X/shr67qWtbFjr8gzKq *Description:* The Lawson Lab in the New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at New Mexico State University (NMSU) invites applications for a PhD research assistantship beginning in January 2027. The successful applicant will be part of an exciting collaborative study between NMSU and the New Mexico Department of Wildlife to investigate spatial and population ecology of the Lesser Prairie-Chicken. The student will be advised by Dr. Abby Lawson (USGS/NMSU), and work closely with Dr. Aaron Young (NMSU) and Mr. Grant Beauprez (NMDOW). Lesser Prairie-Chickens have experienced persistent population declines throughout their range and were recently proposed for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Energy development (oil and gas, wind turbines) and woody shrub encroachment resulting in habitat loss are thought to be contributing factors to the ongoing declines. This project is part of a five-year study to evaluate Lesser Prairie-Chicken movement and demography in response to translocations, transmission line development, and mesquite removal. The student will have a fairly unique opportunity to compare before, during, and after the construction of a major transmission line that runs through the study area in Milnesand, New Mexico. Two years of data have been collected and the student is expected to lead the remaining three field seasons. The student will be expected to develop cutting-edge research questions related to movement and population ecology, and be eager to work with managers. Other potential research topics could include developing decision support tools to target mesquite removal, evaluating the effects of translocations, or question related to trophic or thermal ecology. In addition to the research project, the student will be part of NMSU’s Avian Migration Program, that prepares students for careers in applied avian conservation and management in a rapidly changing world. Graduate students in the program will receive training through a series of workshops, and have the opportunity to mentor undergraduates on a small research project associated with the Lesser Prairie-Chicken study. Salary and Benefits: This position includes 4 years of funding for a research assistantship (~$29K/year), full tuition scholarship, and health insurance reimbursement (up to $200/month). There is also travel funding available for presenting research at local and national conferences. *Qualifications: * Required: B.S. in wildlife, environmental sciences, or related field and possession of a valid U.S. driver’s license. The successful applicant must also meet the minimum requirements for admission to the NMSU Graduate School (3.0 GPA in last two years of undergrad), as well as GRE scores for applicants who received the undergraduate degree outside the U.S. Applicants should also have demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills and/or quantitative skills, experience conducting field work, and an ability to work independently while following safety protocols. This position is based in Las Cruces, NM with field work in Milnesand, NM; I am not able to accommodate remote work. Strong preference will be given to applicants who have completed an M.S in wildlife, ecology, or a related field, as well as applicants with a strong spatial ecology background (e.g., analysis of telemetry data, remote sensing, experience with R and ArcGIS). Previous experience in one or more of the following areas is also desired: upland game bird ecology, Bayesian hierarchical models, working with private landowners, and experience with threatened or endangered species. To apply, please submit an application through our online portal (link below). Applicants will be asked to provide the following in a single PDF: (1) letter of interest that describes their qualifications and how this position fits into their career goals; (2) CV or resume that includes contact information for three references (including a direct supervisor); (3) writing sample such as a published manuscript or M.S. thesis; and (4) university transcripts (unofficial is fine).* Apply by September 28th for full consideration*, though the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. *Submit an application:* https://airtable.com/appMyayGhqoDdyQ2X/shr67qWtbFjr8gzKq *Contact: *Dr. Abby Lawson (ajlawson@nmsu.edu), Assistant Unit Leader, USGS New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
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