The Illinois Natural History Survey (a division of the Prairie Research Institute of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) is seeking a Graduate Research Assistant (Ph.D.). In collaboration with researchers from Purdue University and the Shedd Aquarium, we are developing hydroacoustic array in the area with an intent to answer several questions important to fisheries management. Successful candidate will develop a project within the larger framework of research related to the movement of post-tournament released smallmouth bass in the Illinois nearshore waters of Lake Michigan and connected Chicago land waterways.
We plan to have a successful candidate start as a project technician in the summer of 2023 and transition to a Graduate Research Assistant in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois, in the fall semester of 2023.
Student will be co-advised by Dr. Sergiusz Czesny and Dr. Cory Suski.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications: Experience with fish handling, fisheries techniques in a field setting. Excellent writing and verbal communication skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to both work independently and contribute to a research team. Experience planning and coordinating field teams is an asset.
Desired Experience: An MS degree in biology, ecology, fisheries, or other related discipline. Demonstrated ability to conduct research independently. Experience with fish telemetry, experience conducting statistical analyses, and experience communicating scientific findings through oral and written communication are important. SCUBA certificate and/or snorkeling experience are important. Valid driver’s license is also required.
Salary and Appointment
This position includes a 50% research assistantship with a tuition waiver through the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) beginning Fall 2023. Student must be enrolled to receive tuition waiver, stipend, and health insurance. Monthly stipend for a Ph.D. assistantship is $2298.79
To Apply
For full consideration please email a single PDF including 1) a cover letter which includes your interests regarding this position and how you meet the required qualifications, 2) a CV/resume with employment history, including dates of employment, 3) names and contact information for three professional references, and 4) unofficial transcripts to Dr. Sergiusz Czesny at czesny@illinois.edu. (Reference “Graduate Application” in the subject line of the email and include your last name in all attached files).
Application deadline is March 31, 2023.
The successful applicant will be expected to formally apply to the NRES graduate program at UIUC. All admission decisions must be approved by the NRES Director of Graduate Studies.
For questions, please contact Dr. Sergiusz Czesny, Illinois Natural History Survey by email at czesny@illinois.edu
The University of Illinois is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit http://go.illinois.edu/EEO.
