2019-PhD Graduate Assistantships in Aquatic Ecology

Dr. Jim Garvey‘s Lab in the Center for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences (CFAAS) and the School of Biological Sciences at Southern Illinois University is seeking candidates for two PhD positions. One PhD student will explore the ecosystem-level impacts of broadly distributed aquatic invasive species, using the current bigheaded carp invasion in North American rivers as their primary study system. The other PhD student will participate in a new project linking responses of native and invasive freshwater organisms and their ecosystems to atmospheric carbon dioxide enrichment, while helping assemble a multidisciplinary team of researchers. Both students are expected to develop projects that complement ongoing collaborative research at multiple experimental and geographic scales.

Qualifications: Intent to pursue a professional position in research or academia, with a strong interest in basic and applied ecology. A completed MSc in biology, ecology, or related fields is required. Prior experience in quantitative ecology, field research, writing, and science communication is desirable. Strong collaborative, interdisciplinary, and interpersonal skills are necessary.

About the program: The CFAAS (https://fisheries.siu.edu/) is a 70-year-old externally funded research center in proximity to the Shawnee National Forest and the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, with 90 research ponds, an experimental lake, the Saluki research aquarium, and considerable field sampling assets to meet students’ research needs.

Timeline: Review of applications will begin immediately. Start date negotiable.

Application:  Electronic applications to Jim Garvey (jgarvey@siu.edu, 618-536-7761) should include an up-to-date CV, transcripts, and a letter of interest, including a proposed start date plus career and research goals. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply.