Graduate Research Assistants (M.S. & Ph.D.) and Research Technician
Auburn University
Fish Ecology Group
[Drs. Russell (Rusty) Wright and Dennis DeVries]
We are seeking interested and qualified applicants for both Graduate Research Assistantships (M.S. and Ph.D.), and Research Technician positions to work on a large project to study the population ecology and community interactions involving largemouth bass in the Mobile River Delta estuarine area.
The System: This unique area constitutes one of the largest and longest delta systems in North America, covering as much as 55 km in length from the confluence of the Tombigbee and Alabama rivers to Mobile Bay, and ranging from 10-15 km in width. The amount of freshwater that flows through it ranks among the greatest in North America, particularly relative to the size of the estuary. A causeway, (U.S. Highway 90) was constructed across the upper end of Mobile Bay in 1926-1927 to permit travel across the bay. This road altered the exchange of the fresh water of the Mobile River and the salt water of Mobile Bay, reducing or eliminating movement of estuarine organisms, and modifying sediment deposition patterns.
The Study: We will be conducting a detailed study of the Mobile River Delta, focusing on the role of largemouth bass in this area. Despite the importance of largemouth bass to the Delta, and of the importance of the Delta to marine organisms, little is known about the interaction of marine and freshwater systems in this area. Students and technicians will conduct work on the ecology of and interactions occurring within this system.
Graduate Research Assistantships: We will be accepting two graduate students, one M.S. level and one at the Ph.D. level. Students are expected to conduct their thesis research project and complete required coursework. Students will receive a stipend ($13,400 - 14,000), as well as required technical help, all costs of conducting the research (including travel to field sites, supplies and equipment, etc.), and travel to scientific meetings.
Research Technicians: We will be hiring at least one research technician, who will be responsible for working with the graduate students to make sure that all field and lab work is scheduled, assisting with the field work, and with sample processing and data analyses after samples are collected. Given the distant nature of our field sites, we require that all technicians be able to travel extensively, and work independently. Salary will range from $17,500 - 20,000.
Closing Date: Until filled. Starting dates are negotiable.
Contact: For additional information, feel free to contact either:
Russell A. Wright, email: OR Dennis R. DeVries, email: To Apply: Send your resume (including GPA and GRE scores), names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of
three (3) references, and photocopies of transcripts to: Drs. Russell A. Wright, Department of Fisheries, Auburn University, AL 36849