Masters Position in Avian Conservation at U of Manitoba

A masters student is needed to study effects of twice-over rotational grazing system on songbirds in south-western Manitoba. Large-scale approach (approximately 40 sites) will provide students with the opportunity to explore landscape-level questions, if they desire. Species include Sprague’s pipits, Baird’s sparrows, Savannah sparrows, loggerhead shrike, etc. It is anticipated that the Masters student will supervise and manage 2-4 research assistants. The position will be within the 2-year Masters of Natural Resources Management program at the internationally recognized Natural Resources Institute at the University of Manitoba. This is an interdisciplinary program, which, in addition to an ecology component, covers economic, social, and political issues relevant to natural resources and environmental management and conservation. More information on the MNRM program can be found at http://www.umanitoba.ca/institutes/natural_resources/nri_academic_mp.html (however, please consult with N. Koper regarding upcoming reductions in course requirements). The student will receive a full stipend for 2 years. Students who are eligible for an NSERC industrial scholarship (http://www.nserc.gc.ca/sf_e.asp?nav=sfnav&lbi=2c) may benefit from an increased stipend and funding for their field research, but all interested applicants are encouraged to apply. Applicants should be able to demonstrate interest and experience in avian ecology and environmental conservation, and have outstanding potential for conducting research. The search will continue until a suitable candidate is found. However, deadlines for admissions to the Institute are Feb. 1 and April 1 for international and North American applicants, respectively, so applications should be received well before then. The position will start May 1 2008 and continue to approximately August 31 2010. Applicants should email cover letter, CV, references and unofficial transcripts to Dr. Nicola Koper at koper@cc.umanitoba.ca. Email, or call 204-474-8768 for more information.