SEEKING Canadian MSc Student for work on Western Chorus Frog dynamics
In collaboration with Blazing Star Environmental and the Canadian Wildlife Service, we are assessing the patterns of distribution and occurrence of western chorus frog across its Canadian range. Western Chorus frogs are highly cryptic and are listed as Threatened in Canada, it is therefore essential that variability in population status, distribution and trends be understood. The project will involve conducting field surveys and collecting citizen science datasets to assess factors affecting species occupancy through space and time. Ultimately, the project will contribute to an improved understanding of chorus frog habitat requirements and population status across their range. There may also be an opportunity to validate eDNA as a means of monitoring chorus frog occurrence in local wetlands.
The funding package includes a competitive stipend as well as coverage of all field-related travel and other expenses. Successful candidates will have a BSc in Biology or related field, familiarity with and quantitative skills in occupancy and habitat modeling, a strong work ethic, and interest in working collaboratively in a large and diverse research group. Additional desirable skills include amphibian field skills and working independently.
To apply, please send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, unofficial academic transcript, and contact information for 3 references to: Dennis Murray
(dennismurray@trentu.ca) and Tom Hossie (thossie@trentu.ca). The successful candidate will be enrolled at Trent University by January (preferably) or no later than May 2020, and we will accept applications until a suitable candidate is found, so apply early. See www.dennismurray.ca for additional
information.
SEEKING 1-2 UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS TO START WINTER 2020:
I am currently looking to take on 1-2 undergraduate students from Trent University for Reading Course (BIOL-4900Y) work. Possible projects include analysis of existing datasets on salamander body size to evaluate the consequences of polyploidy, or the evolutionary relationship between body size and pond permanence in Ranid frogs. Reading Course could involve a literature review related to predator-prey ecology (e.g., anti-predator defense strategies, the functional response). I am open to discussing other project ideas as well. In light of the ongoing pandemic, projects where students collect their own field data may be challenging, but are not impossible. Please do take some time to look over my publications and research summary to see if and where our interests might overlap.
In collaboration with Blazing Star Environmental and the Canadian Wildlife Service, we are assessing the patterns of distribution and occurrence of western chorus frog across its Canadian range. Western Chorus frogs are highly cryptic and are listed as Threatened in Canada, it is therefore essential that variability in population status, distribution and trends be understood. The project will involve conducting field surveys and collecting citizen science datasets to assess factors affecting species occupancy through space and time. Ultimately, the project will contribute to an improved understanding of chorus frog habitat requirements and population status across their range. There may also be an opportunity to validate eDNA as a means of monitoring chorus frog occurrence in local wetlands.
The funding package includes a competitive stipend as well as coverage of all field-related travel and other expenses. Successful candidates will have a BSc in Biology or related field, familiarity with and quantitative skills in occupancy and habitat modeling, a strong work ethic, and interest in working collaboratively in a large and diverse research group. Additional desirable skills include amphibian field skills and working independently.
To apply, please send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, unofficial academic transcript, and contact information for 3 references to: Dennis Murray
(dennismurray@trentu.ca) and Tom Hossie (thossie@trentu.ca). The successful candidate will be enrolled at Trent University by January (preferably) or no later than May 2020, and we will accept applications until a suitable candidate is found, so apply early. See www.dennismurray.ca for additional
information.
SEEKING 1-2 UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS TO START WINTER 2020:
I am currently looking to take on 1-2 undergraduate students from Trent University for Reading Course (BIOL-4900Y) work. Possible projects include analysis of existing datasets on salamander body size to evaluate the consequences of polyploidy, or the evolutionary relationship between body size and pond permanence in Ranid frogs. Reading Course could involve a literature review related to predator-prey ecology (e.g., anti-predator defense strategies, the functional response). I am open to discussing other project ideas as well. In light of the ongoing pandemic, projects where students collect their own field data may be challenging, but are not impossible. Please do take some time to look over my publications and research summary to see if and where our interests might overlap.