University of Georgia · Georgia · posted today
Description: The Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study (SCWDS) and the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia (UGA), in close collaboration with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR), are recruiting a Ph.D. student to lead a comprehensive, field-intensive research program investigating the epidemiological, demographic, and behavioral impacts of sarcoptic mange (Sarcoptes scabiei) on American black bear (Ursus americanus) populations in West Virginia. This project builds upon West Virginia's long-term black bear research foundation to support evidence-based management and to better understand the impacts of sarcoptic mange in black bears. Key Research Objectives & Scope of Work · Longitudinal Disease Tracking and Clinical Evaluations · Mortality and Pathological Assessment · Demographic and Reproductive Monitoring · Movement Ecology and GPS Telemetry · Non-Invasive Camera Trap Arrays and Density Estimation Qualifications We seek a highly motivated, resilient candidate with strong quantitative abilities, excellent field skills, and a commitment to wildlife disease ecology and population management to join a team of graduate students working on the project. Minimum Qualifications: · Master's degree (M.S.) in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Health, Veterinary Science, or a closely related discipline (exceptional candidates holding a B.S. with extensive research and field leadership experience may be considered). · Minimum cumulative undergraduate/graduate GPA >= 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. · Demonstrated experience conducting wildlife field research, animal capture/handling, and data collection. · Physical capability and willingness to perform strenuous, physically demanding fieldwork in rugged, mountainous terrain under adverse weather conditions. · Proficiency and demonstrated aptitude in R programming, spatial analysis (GIS), and quantitative methods in natural resources management. · A valid driver's license and clean driving record. Preferred Qualifications: · Direct experience with chemical immobilization and handling of large mammals, preferably black bears or other carnivores. · Experience designing and maintaining remote camera trap grids and analyzing camera data. · Prior background in telemetry analysis, movement ecology, spatial statistics, and/or Bayesian hierarchical modeling. · Familiarity or interest in learning wildlife diagnostic procedures, necropsy, tissue sampling, parasitology, or health assessments. · Proven leadership skills managing field technician crews, coordinating field logistics, and communicating effectively with field team and agency partners. · Demonstrated track record of scientific writing, including peer-reviewed publications and oral presentations. Location & Team Environment Academic coursework and diagnostic lab work will be based at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA, within the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources and SCWDS. Field research will be conducted across two study regions in West Virginia around Hardy and Pendleton, Pocahontas & Greenbrier counties. The Ph.D. student will join a collaborative, interdisciplinary team of faculty, graduate students, wildlife veterinarians, and agency biologists, working directly with state bear managers. How to Apply To apply for this graduate assistantship, please compile the following materials into a single PDF document formatted with the file name LastName_FirstName_BearMange_PhD.pdf emailed to all three contacts: • Cover Letter: A 1–2 page letter describing your research background, quantitative skills, field experience, career goals, and specific interest in this project. • Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume: Highlighting relevant education, research experience, publications, field skills, certifications, and awards. • Transcripts: Copies of unofficial transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate coursework completed. • Professional References: Contact information (Name, title, institution, email address, phone number) for three professional or academic references. Please send complete application materials directly to: • Dr. Marcelo Jorge (Marcelo.Jorge@uga.edu) • Dr. Michael Yabsley (myabsley@uga.edu) • Dr. Raquel Franscisco (Raquel.Francisco@uga.edu) Application Review: Review of applications will begin immediately, and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.
Apply on the employer's site →JobMoo watches every zoo, aquarium, wildlife, and marine source we know and emails you the roles that fit, once a day, with a real human keeping an eye on your search. Built by a dad and his daughter, and it worked: she landed the job.
Start your 7-day trial, $9/mo after