MSc – Role of dung-breeding insects in pasture ecosystems
Applications are invited for an MSc position to begin January or May of 2017. Research will examine the role of dung-breeding insects in pasture ecosystems in southern Alberta. This is a collaborative project between Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and the University of Lethbridge (U. of L.), both based in Lethbridge, Alberta.
The project will include insect surveys using dung-baited pitfall traps from May through September on native pastures in southern Alberta, Canada. The role of dung insect activity will be assessed for effects on dung degradation, soil nutrients and micro-fauna, and greenhouse gas emissions. Dung beetles will be examined as potential vectors of parasites affecting livestock.
The ideal applicant will have recently completed an undergraduate degree in biology or related program with courses in entomology and ecology. They will be enthusiastic, innovative, and have excellent communication skills (written, oral) in English. They must be able to work independently and as part of a team. They must have a valid driver’s license and meet the scholastic qualifications required for acceptance into Graduate Studies at the U. of L.
The successful applicant will be jointly supervised by Drs. Kevin Floate (AAFC) and Cam Goater (U. of L.). Under the supervision of Dr. Floate, the student will be based at the Lethbridge Research and Development Centre (AAFC), where they will perform the main body of their research. The Floate lab studies diverse aspects of insect community ecology with particular emphasis on prairie ecosystems (https://sites.google.com/site/dungins/homepage). Under the supervision of Dr. Goater, the student will be enrolled in an MSc program in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Lethbridge. Research in the dynamic Goater lab focuses on the ecology and evolution of host/parasite interactions, and on prairie biodiversity and conservation (http://scholar.ulethbridge.ca/cpg/home).
Informal communication with Dr. Floate prior to application is encouraged. To apply, please send a cover letter detailing your fit to the position, a CV, a copy of your most recent transcripts, and the names and contact details of three referees to Dr. Kevin Floate (Kevin.Floate@agr.gc.ca). The deadline for application is November 1, 2016.