University of Southern Mississippi · Mississippi · posted 19 days ago
Description: I am recruiting one MS student to participate in an ongoing multi-year (2027-2029) project to assess population sizes, demographics, reproductive rates, growth rates, and survivorship of freshwater turtle populations in Mississippi. This will entail extensive trapping surveys, including mark-recapture, to capture, mark, and measure freshwater turtles, including at-risk and federally listed species. Together with an established doctoral student, the successful applicant will conduct repeated trapping and snorkel surveys at up to 12 established long-term monitoring sites in Mississippi for the alligator snapping turtle, Pascagoula map turtle, Pearl River map turtle, and other freshwater turtle species. We will also gather demographic information, including but not limited to survival and growth rates across size and sex classes, sex ratios, and clutch sizes. Data from these surveys will be used to estimate population density and assess population trends and extinction risk under different scenarios, using population viability analyses. Captured turtles will also be scanned for the presence of ingested fishhooks, so we can monitor the effects of these on individual health and survivorship. Mississippi boasts a high biodiversity of chelonians, including multiple species that are federally and state listed, or of conservation concern, and multiple single river endemic species. The information gained from this study will inform population viability analyses and other assessments for these freshwater turtle species, especially those of conservation concern. Qualifications: Applicants must have a BS in ecology/environmental biology, zoology, wildlife biology, or other relevant areas. Academic record(s) must be competitive for admission to the University of Southern Mississippi graduate program in Biology. Prior experience with the safe operation of small motorboats and with trapping/handling of aquatic turtles is preferred but not required. Willingness and ability to work with a partner (for safety) is a must, as is the ability to conduct field work under potentially challenging field conditions, including high heat and humidity. Application: To apply, please send the following: cover letter, resume or CV, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for three references to Professor Carl Qualls, Carl.Qualls@usm.edu. Also address any inquiries about the position to the same address. GRE scores are not required, but if already taken, applicants may also send an unofficial copy of GRE scores. A start date of January 2027 and enrollment for the Spring 2027 semester is anticipated. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
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