Graduate Position at Tennessee Tech University

Two graduate student opportunities (one Ph.D. and one M.S.) are available through the Department of Biology (https://www.tntech.edu/cas/biology/) at Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville, Tennessee; starting date is August 2022. The successful applicants will use whole genome sequencing and reduced representation genomic techniques to investigate the evolutionary history, population genetic structure and adaptation of the Streamside Salamander (Ambystoma barbouri) throughout its range. Specifically, the student would utilize a Gentoyping-by-Sequencing protocol to identify and genotype informative SNPs and utilize this data to address questions related to the conservation of this species. Results from this study will be directly applicable to improving management protocols for the Streamside Salamanders in Tennessee. Interested students are encouraged to e-mail me ([email protected]). Please include a short description of your academic background, research interests and your CV. Screening of applicants will begin immediately. Please contact me by February 1, 2022 for full consideration. There is an additional PhD opportunity related to this project at Tennessee State University. This position will focus on habitat modeling and occupancy of streamside salamanders in Tennessee. Please contact Dr. Bill Sutton ([email protected]) for more information.

Qualifications

We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a degree in biology or closely related field and a strong academic record. A GPA of at least 3.5 is required. The successful candidate should demonstrate an interest in wildlife conservation and molecular genetics. The student will need to possess an aptitude for data analysis and careful research in a molecular genetics laboratory as well as an ability to conduct field work. Previous experience working in a molecular laboratory is preferred but exceptional applicants without experience will be considered. Financial support (stipend and full tuition waiver) will be provided through teaching and research assistantships and will be renewable annually contingent upon satisfactory performance.

Contact Person

Carla Hurt

Contact Phone 9313723143

Contact eMail [email protected]