Graduate Research Assistantship
MS Degree in Wildlife Ecology or
Ecology and Environmental Sciences
University of Maine, Orono
Start Date:  September 2008

We are seeking a student for a M.S. assistantship at the University of Maine to participate in an ongoing study of amphibian use of naturally fishless lakes and vernal pools in Maine.  These lakes contain unique invertebrate communities, and are used for breeding by amphibian species that typically breed in vernal pools. We seek to understand the role these lakes play in the persistence of amphibian populations in this remote landscape, and the potential effects on their populations of loss of vernal pool habitats and fishless lakes to future development.  This project is part of a larger research initiative on Maine aquatic systems, and collaboration with other scientists on the project will be expected.

The applicant should have excellent quantitative skills and research interests and experience in aquatic ecology, with emphasis on amphibian ecology and wetland systems.  Experience with GIS would be helpful, but is not required.  The 2.5-year assistantship ($15,000 per year) includes $900 annually toward health insurance (half of the annual cost) and a tuition waiver (student is responsible for approximately $600 annually in fees).  The applicant will be expected to serve as a teaching assistant for up to two semesters of their degree program.  The position is available September 2008 or until a suitable applicant is found.  The field research will begin in April 2009.

To apply, please send a letter explaining your interest in this topic, a resume that includes past field and laboratory experience, copies of transcripts, GRE scores, and names, addresses, and phone numbers of three references to Dr. Cynthia Loftin and Dr. Aram Calhoun at the addresses below: