M.S. and Ph.D. positions in Amphibian Reproductive Physiology and Sustainable Collections Management within Zoos and Aquariums
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in collaboration with Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture at Mississippi State University (MSU), is seeking applications at the M.S. and PhD student rank.
This position is on the MSU campus, located in Starkville, Mississippi. A description of the two departments can be found at http://www.biochemistry.msstate.edu/ and http://www.cfr.msstate.edu/wildlife
As soon as available or as negotiated. Review begins November 15; will continue until filled. Positions are available to start anytime during the Spring semester (Jan-May) with preference for a sooner start time.
We seek students interested in specializing in reproductive physiology, endocrinology and sustainable collections research related to amphibians with particular emphasis on threatened and endangered species. The research will combine a mix of observational and experimental approaches focused on advancing assisted reproductive technologies and genetic resource banking to support conservation and reintroduction programs. We encourage applicants to apply that have acquired experience in reproductive technologies or lab work through internships or job familiarity. A working knowledge of amphibian physiology is not required; although a passion for this particular taxa is helpful. The primary responsibilities of this position will be the development of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and cryobiology platforms for amphibian species of concern. Technologies developed may include hormone therapy for the collection of gametes, in vitro fertilization, cryopreservation and genome banking, and hormone assays. The successful applicant will also acquire experience and skill sets necessary for teaching in formal and informal scenarios.
Additional responsibilities may include husbandry and care of the research animal collection; mentoring of interns and undergraduate students; providing assistance to senior scientists, research associates, and/or post-doctoral fellows in conducting investigations related to Zoo and Aquarium amphibian collections; compiling and maintaining complete and accurate research records through database entry, design and data management including statistical analysis; producing periodic progress reports and financial statements on the research program; interface with other staff members and Zoo professionals around the country; present research findings both nationally or internationally; perform other related duties as assigned to support the amphibian conservation lab’s mission in order to achieve the goals and objectives of the program. Our partners include the Fort Worth Zoo, Detroit Zoo, North Carolina Zoo and Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and students accepted into the program will likely be required to travel between our partner institutions for a part of their research.
a B.S. degree in Biology, Animal Science, Wildlife/Fisheries, Biochemistry/Molecular Biology or similarly related field is required for the M.S. program, whereas a M.S. degree is required to enter the PhD program. M.S. applicants should have acquired internship or job experience that qualifies as having obtained working lab or amphibian familiarity. We are not accepting any straight-through Ph.D. applicants without already having obtained or about to obtain a M.S. degree already. Individuals with a DVM wishing to obtain a graduate degree in research are also encouraged to apply. Predominant qualification: a passion for amphibian conservation and interest in reproductive biotechnologies.
Annual $17,000 USD + tuition waived (>$11k) for MS
Annual $23,500 USD + tuition waived (>$11k) for PhD
Applications should be submitted electronically to Dr. Carrie Vance at the address below. Send unofficial college transcripts, curriculum vitae, and cover letter of intent with three potential references to contact:
Carrie Vance, PhD
Associate Professor
Department fo Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology
Mississippi State, MS 39762
ckv7@msstate.edu
For more information, email at: ckv7@msstate.edu
Condition of Employment:
As required by Executive Order 14042, If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before beginning employment with the University.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accomodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
We conduct research aimed at developing assisted reproductive technologies for at-risk amphibian species.
Congratulations to MSU undergraduate student and presidential scholar, Lindsay Culpepper, on winning first place oral presentation at the January 2022 International Embryo Transfer Society (IETS) meeting for her talk on impacts of different culture media during early embryonic development in amphibians. Lindsay is currently a Conservation Physiology Lab Undergraduate Research Scholar.
