Selection of Native Species to Compete with Prominent Texas Invasives

Position Description: We are seeking one M.S. student to join a research project focused on identifying commercially available native plant species capable of competing with dominant invasive species, Bastard Grass, along Central Texas roadside rights-of-way. The project will involve both field and greenhouse experiments to evaluate potential native species for their competitiveness. Our goal is to identify native plant species that can be effectively seeded to suppress bastard cabbage, ultimately contributing to safer and more ecologically balanced roadsides in Central Texas.

Key Responsibilities 

  • Conduct fieldwork in Central Texas to monitor seed establishment and plant performance and competition
  • Conduct greenhouse studies including seeding, watering, and daily project monitoring
  • Oversee field technicians during fieldwork
  • Data management
  • Apply statistical analysis used in assessments of plant community dynamics
  • Present research findings at conferences and via peer-reviewed journal articles

Qualifications Required: 

  • B.S. in ecology, plant science, wildlife biology, natural resources, or related discipline (Major degree will be in Plant and Soil Science)

  • A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)

  • Strong quantitative skills

  • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)

  • Design, plan, conduct and coordinate experiments in support of various research projects.

  • Ability to conduct fieldwork in hot and humid conditions

Additional Responsibilities:

  • Experience in managing trial establishment and collection of data

  • Develop, conduct and evaluate tolerance for species at seedling stage of growth

  • Assist with conducting native plant evaluations

Stipend/Salary: 

$2,000/month plus benefits (medical package available after completion of waiting period) 

Start Date: August 2025 preferable, but open to negotiation

Application Deadline: July 1st 2025

To Apply: Submit an application packet as a single PDF including: (1) one-page letter of interest, (2) CV or resume, (3) unofficial undergraduate/graduate transcripts, and (4) contact information for two professional references to Dr. Anthony Falk (anthony.falk@tamuk.edu).

For questions regarding this position: Dr. Anthony Falk, Dan L Duncan Endowed Director, Texas Native Seeds, Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Email: anthony.falk@tamuk.edu, or Dr. Greta Schuster, Professor in Integrated Pest Management, in the Department of Agriculture, Agribusiness, and Environmental Science. Email: greta.schuster@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