University of Illinois Urbana Champaign · Illinois · posted today
Description I am seeking one highly motivated student to join my research group in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. Start date will be mid-May 2027. During the summer of 2027, the student will analyze a long-term passive acoustic monitoring dataset to determine presence/absence for T & E bat species in National Park Service units in the Upper Midwest and visit the NPS units with Dr. O’Keefe to evaluate the available habitat. During the following academic year, the student will develop distribution models for T & E bats using habitat layers. At present, there is only one year of funding available but there is the potential for a second year of funding that would enable mistnetting surveys to validate GIS models. If the funding is not renewed, the student will be supported through teaching assistantships or fellowships during the second academic year. This study is funded by and will be conducted in collaboration with the National Park Service. Results will inform policy on conservation practices to enhance and protect habitat for federally endangered bats. Minimum Qualifications Applicants should have a BS degree in biology, ecology, wildlife, or another related discipline. Preferred qualifications include strong quantitative and analytical skills, field research experience, and a competitive GPA. Excellent writing and verbal communication skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to both work independently and contribute to a research team will also be beneficial. A valid driver’s license is also required. Preferred Experience Experience with identifying bat calls, processing bat acoustic data in standard software packages, working with large amounts of data, and developing maps in GIS. How to Apply If interested, please send an email to Dr. Joy O’Keefe (jmokeefe@illinois.edu) by November 23, 2026 with the following combined into one PDF with your last name in the file name: CV, undergraduate transcripts (unofficial are sufficient), statement of interest addressing minimum qualifications and preferred experience for this project, and contact information for three references.
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