School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri · Missouri · posted 15 days ago
Location: Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri; Columbia, Missouri Start date: January 2027, but flexible based on funding approval and student availability Responsibilities: 1. Develop a standardized, long-term monitoring strategy for Grotto Sculpin to aid the USFWS with species recovery actions 2. Conduct a mark-recapture and movement study of Grotto Sculpin to explore demographic and movement patterns Background: This exciting project is part of a larger effort by state, university, and federal partners to advance recovery actions for Grotto Sculpin, a federally threatened and cave-adapted fish species known from only 5 cave systems in southeastern Missouri. The successful applicant will pursue their master’s degree at the University of Missouri while developing valuable field, writing, quantitative, and professional skills. Qualifications: Undergraduate degree in natural resources or related field, strong written and verbal communication abilities, ability to work effectively in a team with agency biologists, and a passion for conservation of aquatic species. Preferred qualifications include a background in mark-recapture analysis, occupancy analysis, experience with passive integrated transponder tags and antennas, interest in cave ecology, good organizational skills, and ability to develop strong quantitative skills. This is a field-based project and will require sampling in subterranean systems, an ability to move through confined spaces, and leading/coordinating hourly field technicians. Stipend: $27,000/year plus benefits and tuition waiver. Position will ideally be for 2.5 years but will be based on funding allocations and student performance. Closing date: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled, but preference will be given to applications received by October 9, 2026. Contact: Send letter of interest, resume or CV, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for three references to Jacob Westhoff, Missouri Cooperative Research Unit, University of Missouri-Columbia. 573-884-8464; westhoffj@missouri.edu; https://www.aquaticdiversity.com/
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