Chronic Wasting Disease Epidemiology

Position Description: We are recruiting an ambitious Ph.D. student to evaluate Chronic Wasting Disease epidemiology. This project is with the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. The student will evaluate the spatial epidemiology of Chronic Wasting Disease in a multiple host system. Further, the student will develop experimental Chronic Wasting Disease research in a captive setting. The student will be expected to develop additional questions depending on their interests. Funding is available for 4 years (May 2024–May 2028), while working toward a Ph.D. degree in Wildlife Science at Texas A&M University-Kingsville as part of the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute. The selected candidate will also be expected to work closely with biologists from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, private landowners, and researchers from collaborating universities. Additional duties include publication of research results and presentations at professional conferences. The student will be co-advised by Drs. Levi Heffelfinger and Alynn Martin.

Stipend/Salary: $2,200 per month plus benefits (medical package available after completion of waiting period) and nonresident tuition waived (resident tuition fees apply but will be reimbursed to ensure a full tuition waiver)

Qualifications: 

  • M.S. in wildlife management, natural resources, ecology, or a closely related discipline.
  • Completed M.S. research topic of wildlife disease epidemiology. 
  • Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or greater.
  • Previous field and animal handling experience.
  • Experience planning and coordinating research activities.
  • Experience conducting independent research.
  • Highly motivated with a strong work ethic.

Preferred: 

  • Strong interest in wildlife disease management 
  • Experience in modeling highly contagious disease transmission (mange, CWD, etc.)
  • Experience modeling disease epidemiology in highly mobile species (canids, ungulates, mesocarnivores, etc.)
  • Experience using R, GIS, and/or other statistical programs.
  • Demonstration and experience with technical writing and/or publication
  • Experience working closely with private landowners
  • Ability to walk/run over rugged terrain, sometimes in extreme conditions (heat, cold)
  • A valid US driver license (without restrictions)

Application Deadline: 05/14/2024. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and will continue until a suitable candidate is selected. 

Application: Applications must be a single PDF file with your last name in the file name. The application can be sent via email to levi.heffelfinger@tamuk.edu with a subject line “Mule Deer Ph.D.” Application must include; (1) a 1–2-page cover letter that details why you are interested in this position, your most relevant experiences, and your professional goals/aspirations; (2) a Curriculum Vitae; (3) contact information for 3 professional references (i.e., name, affiliation, email, and phone number); (4) transcripts (can be unofficial).

Levi Heffelfinger, Ph.D.
Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute
Texas A&M University -Kingsville
Email: levi.heffelfinger@tamuk.edu

Texas law requires that males 18 through 25 show proof of compliance with Federal Selective Service law in order to be eligible for employment. Selected candidate must pass a pre-employment background investigation to be hired for this position. 
 

EEO/AA/ADA