Are you passionate about wildlife conservation and quantitative ecology? A fully funded PhD opportunity is now open at Oregon State University in Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences. Join the Twining Applied Quantitative Ecology Lab in Corvallis, Oregon, and contribute to advancing landscape-scale monitoring of small mammals across the Pacific Northwest.
🔍 PhD Research Overview:
Small mammals like western gray squirrels, red tree voles, and pocket gophers play a critical role in Oregon’s ecosystems, yet data on their distribution and population trends are outdated. This four-year PhD program aims to modernize small-mammal monitoring methods through a multi-method, multi-year approach combining:
- Non-invasive survey technologies for arboreal, terrestrial, and fossorial mammals
- Simulation modeling integrated with field data to optimize monitoring protocols
- Bayesian hierarchical models for accurate abundance and distribution estimates
🎯 Key Research Objectives:
- Develop and evaluate non-invasive tools (eDNA, camera traps, acoustic sensors)
- Combine field trials with statistical modeling
- Generate statewide biodiversity data to inform Oregon’s Wildlife Action Plan
💰 Funding and Benefits:
- Duration: 4 years (2026–2030)
- Stipend: $30,000–$33,000 per year (12-month)
- Full Tuition Coverage
- Health Insurance + Professional Development Support
- Funding provided via a combination of Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) and Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA)
🌟 Why Choose This PhD Program?
- Real-World Impact: Directly supports wildlife conservation policies in Oregon
- Interdisciplinary Methods: Integrates ecology, genetics, acoustics, and advanced modeling
- Strong Institutional Network: Collaborate with Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, NCASI, and the Oregon Biodiversity Information Center
- Location Perks: Live in Corvallis, OR—a bike-friendly, nature-surrounded city with affordable living
✅ Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in Ecology, Wildlife Science, Biology, or related field by Jan 2026
- Proficiency in R, statistics, and ecological concepts
- Willingness to conduct extended fieldwork in rugged terrain
- Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
Preferred (but not mandatory):
- M.S. degree with peer-reviewed publications
- Mammal handling or trapping experience
- Familiarity with Bayesian modeling tools (e.g., Stan, NIMBLE)
- Knowledge of molecular/genetic techniques like metabarcoding
💡 Not meeting all the preferred qualifications? No problem—if you are eager to learn and committed to conservation science, you’re encouraged to apply!
🌲 Life in Corvallis, Oregon:
- Close proximity to coastal rainforests, mountains, and beaches
- Affordable housing compared to other West Coast cities
- Access to field sites, research libraries, and a vibrant outdoor culture
❓ FAQs:
Q: Is a Master’s degree required?
A: No, strong Bachelor’s-level candidates are welcome. M.S. holders may progress more quickly.
Q: How much teaching is required?
A: Typically one teaching term per year—great for experience without affecting research focus.
Q: What field conditions should I expect?
A: Fieldwork ranges from coastal rainforests to high-elevation forests—expect rugged terrains, seasonal weather, and valuable leadership-building conditions.
Q: Can international students apply?
A: Yes! OSU welcomes international applicants. Just ensure you meet English language proficiency standards.
📩 How to Apply:
To apply, prepare the following:
- Cover Letter (max 2 pages) – Highlight your background, research interests, and alignment with the project
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Emphasize your quantitative, field, and communication skills
- Unofficial Transcripts – Official copies will be requested if selected
- Three References – Include names, affiliations, and contact details
🔗 Combine all documents into a single PDF titled: LastName_SmallMammal_PhD.pdf
📧 Email it to Dr. Joshua P. Twining
📨 Email: joshua.twining@oregonstate.edu
📌 Subject Line: PhD Application – Small Mammals
🗓️ Priority Deadline: August 15, 2025 (Applications reviewed on a rolling basis)
🎓 Launch Your Conservation Career:
This PhD offers a rare blend of academic rigor, hands-on fieldwork, and direct conservation impact. If you’re ready to shape the future of wildlife science using cutting-edge tools and cross-agency collaborations, don’t miss this opportunity.
👉 Apply by August 15, 2025 and start your journey toward becoming a leader in wildlife ecology and conservation science.