MSU Listserv

From: Mammalian Biology <[log in to unmask]> on behalf of Richard Stevens <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Friday, July 26, 2024 at 4:56 PM
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: MS Research Assistant in Bat Ecology
External Email - Exercise Caution
A MS research assistantship is available in Richard Stevens’ lab in the Department of Natural Resources Management at Texas Tech University. In arid desert systems, increasing water availability may be the most effective means to enhance distribution and abundance of organisms and may serve as an important management tool.  Although bats are known to use larger earthen tanks as water sources in the desert, little is known of use of other kinds of man-made waters such as wildlife guzzlers.  Moreover, many kinds of wildlife guzzlers are available, and nothing is known of the relative effects of different constructions on bat activity.  The MS thesis project will compare bat activity at large earthen tanks to guzzlers of five different construction types to determine which guzzler constructions are best for bats.  Such information will provide important insights into an inexpensive, low effort and impactful management strategy to enhance distribution and abundance of a large number of bat species of greatest conservation need in the Trans-Pecos of Texas. Data collection for the project will start no later than May 2025 but would preferably begin sooner.  Financial support would extend through the end of the summer 2026 and be $18,000 per year plus tuition remission.  Interested persons should contact Richard Stevens ([log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>).  Application materials must include an unofficial transcript, 1-page description of prior training and future research goals and names of 3 professional references.