The Animal Migration Research Group at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) is seeking a motivated Ph.D. student interested in investigating the processes that influence the formation of bird communities during spring and fall migration. This position is funded by a research project recently awarded by National Science Foundation (NSF), titled “CAREER: Community Ecology of Bird Migration – Co-Occurring Migrations and Interspecific Interactions.”

Start date: Summer or Fall 2023

Location: The UMCES Appalachian Laboratory is located in Frostburg, MD and strives to prepare researchers to meet future challenges in the protection of natural resources, biodiversity conservation and land management. The Appalachian Laboratory is a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment unique to smaller, research-intensive institutions. Frostburg is a small college town with a low cost of living and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Nearby amenities include numerous state forests and wildlife areas, scenic Appalachian Mountains and Frostburg State University.

Required qualifications: Students with a quantitative background and experience conducting field work with migratory birds are particularly encouraged to apply. Students with MS in Biology, Ecology or similar field preferred but those with BS degree and research experience will also be considered.

Description: The assistantship will include tuition coverage, state benefits and a12-month annual stipend of approximately $30,000.

Program: The student will matriculate through the Marine, Estuarine, and Environmental Sciences Program (MEES), an inter-institutional interdisciplinary graduate program of the University System of Maryland whose mission is to educate students to become the scientific leaders and problem-solvers of the future.

Apply: To be considered for the position, please submit your statement of interest briefly describing your research interests, experience, and career goals, your CV, and reference information . Applications received by 1 November 2022 will be given priority consideration but the position will remain open until filled. Selected applicants will be contacted to discuss the position and a subset of these will be invited to visit and formally apply to the MEES Graduate program (deadline January 14, 2023). We are enthusiastic about increasing the diversity of science and scientists and strongly encourages students from STEM-underrepresented populations to apply. Please use the form to submit your application but other inquiries may be sent to Dr. Emily Cohen (Emily.Cohen@umces.edu). UMCES is an affirmative action, EOE. Individuals with disabilities, veterans, women and minorities are encouraged to apply.