PH.D. GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP - Leveraging Virtual Fencing Technology to Manage Rangeland Recovery in South Texas

PH.D. GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP - Leveraging Virtual Fencing Technology to Manage Rangeland Recovery in South Texas
 

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Virtual fencing (VF) is an emerging technology that enables adaptive management without physical fences. This 4-year Ph.D. project will evaluate VF grazing treatments on working ranches in South Texas to (1) monitor rangeland recovery indicators, (2) integrate novel remote sensing tools (e.g., drones, phenocams) to develop and refine indicators, and (3) analyze livestock performance and movement data. The results will support adaptive management strategies that improve rangeland health and livestock production.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work with ranch scientists and staff to establish and monitor VF grazing treatments across multiple years.

  • Integrate novel remote sensing technologies to develop and refine indicators of rangeland recovery.

  • Analyze livestock performance and movement data in relation to VF treatments.

  • Collaborate on research, present findings at scient ific meetings, and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

  • Develop independent research questions within the scope of the project in partnership with your graduate committee.

QUALIFICATIONS

B.S. and M.S. in ecology, wildlife science, natural resources, range science, forestry, biology, or related fields. Experience in rangeland ecology/management helpful but not required. Strong quantitative skills, publication record, and excellent communication skills. Ability to work independently and as a team in adverse field conditions. Minimum 3.0 GPA ( > 3.5 GPA in graduate coursework).

LOCATION

Pursue your Ph.D. in Wildlife and Rangeland Sciences at the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK), Kingsville, Texas. Field research will be conducted in the South Texas rangelands near the Rio Grande Valley.

STIPEND & BENEFITS

$2,200/month plus benefits (medial package has a 60-day waiting period) plus tuition and fees fully covered.

START DATE

August 2026

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Applications will be reviewed starting immediately and must be received by May 31, 2026.

DURATION

Fully funded 4-year position

COLLABORATIVE TEAM

This position is funded by the Hildebrand Foundation and involves a highly collaborative team of scientists from: Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, the East Foundation, and Oklahoma State University. Co-advisors: Drs. Evan Tanner and Sam Fuhlendorf.

TO APPLY

Application packet (1 PDF file) must include:

1. Cover letter stating interests and career goals

2. Curriculum vitae (CV)

3. Copy of academic transcripts (unofficial accepted)

4. Names and contact information for three professional references

 

Email application with subject line 'Virtual Fencing and Adaptive Management in South Texas Rangelands' to: Dr. Evan P. Tanner at evan.tanner@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.