Description
The Mitchell Lab in the Department of Wildlife and Natural Resources at Tarleton State University seeks a highly motivated student to receive an M.Sc. in Agriculture and Natural Resources to explore the relationship between microplastic pollutants in macroinvertebrate food webs for Summer 2024. The student will conduct field surveys in MatagordaBay and adjacent wetland ecosystems to obtain tissue samples of invertebrates and plants for analysis alongside developing a baseline macroinvertebrate community in impacted wetland systems. Travel and multi-day fieldwork are expected. Students will also develop a microcosm study under laboratory conditions exploring the transfer of candidate microplastic and nanoplastic materials through sediment, plant tissues, and invertebrates at higher trophic levels.
Qualification
✅ B.Sc. in ecology, fisheries, entomology, marine sciences, or other related fields with a GPA of at least 3.0 required.
✅ Preference will be given to applicants with experience in freshwater or coastal systems, piloting single-engine watercraft, experience with statistical software (R statistical programming or equivalent), and scientific writing.
✅ Students must be self-motivated, able to work independently in adverse field conditions (esp. hot weather and stinging insects) and remote areas, and must have a valid driver’s license.
Salary and Benefits
✅ Students will receive a monthly salary of $1600 for 24 24-month (2-year) commitment, including health benefits as an employee of Tarleton State University and the Texas A&M University System.
✅ Out-of-state tuition costs are waived; students are responsible for in-state tuition and fees.
✅ Students will receive assistance by hiring field technicians, compensation for travel and lab costs, and funding to present research at a professional conference of their choice.
Application
To apply, please email the following materials as a single PDF file to Adam Mitchell (abmitchell@tarleton.edu).
1) a single-page cover letter describing professional goals,
2) a resume or CV,
3) a copy of an academic transcript (official or unofficial), and
4) contact information for three references. Please include the subject line “YOURNAME_InvertebrateMS”.
The deadline to apply is March 1st, with a quick turnaround for interview. Applicants who interview will be requested to provide an example of their writing skills, such as a term paper or a scientific publication/technical bulletin in which they are co-authors, if applicable. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Mitchell by email or call (254)-459-5334.
