A PhD assistantship is available in the Department of Natural Resource
Ecology and Management at Iowa State University. The objective of this
project is to identify factors influencing the occurrence, transmission,
and spatial spread of wildlife diseases. Results will aid in the design of
effective disease surveillance programs and appropriate management
strategies. Using white-tailed deer as the study organism, the student
will 1) characterize patterns of deer population genetic structure and
gene flow to forecast the spatial spread of diseases such as chronic
wasting disease, and 2) estimate prevalence and spatial distribution
patterns of deer-associated diseases of zoonotic and domestic animal
concern (e.g., Coxiella burnetii, bovine viral diarrhea) to assess risks
of interspecific transmission. The student is also expected to pursue
additional research question(s) suitable to his/her interests.

Qualifications: A M.S. in wildlife ecology, genetics, or a related field
is desirable. This is a lab-based project in which the student will be
responsible for generating and analyzing all genetic data as well as
conducting disease assays. Preference will be given to applicants with
prior research experience using genetic techniques. Experience with GIS is
also desirable but not necessary.

Contact: Dr. Julie Blanchong, julieb@iastate.edu, with a letter of
interest, unofficial copies of college transcripts and GRE scores,
description of any previous research experience, and contact information
for three references. Review of applications will begin immediately and
continue until a suitable applicant is found. The project can begin as
early as May, 2011.

The candidate selected will be provided with an assistantship that
includes a stipend, tuition waiver, and health care benefits

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