Are you passionate about herpetology, spatial ecology, and field-based conservation research? West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) is offering two fully funded M.S. graduate research assistantships in Biology, focusing on the Western Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus tergeminus)—a high-priority species for conservation in Texas.
These prestigious assistantships are open to both domestic and international applicants, with generous funding, no teaching load, and comprehensive field training included.
🐍 Graduate Assistantship Overview
- Degree Program: M.S. in Biology
- Specializations: Herpetology, Spatial Ecology, Behavioral Ecology
- Location: WTAMU Campus, Canyon, Texas (near Palo Duro Canyon State Park)
- Start Date: January 2026
- Duration: 38 months (Spring 2026 – Fall 2028)
- Application Deadline: August 25, 2025
- Priority Review Begins: August 4, 2025
🎯 Research Focus Areas
This assistantship supports a field-intensive, cutting-edge study on the ecology and behavior of the Western Massasauga Rattlesnake. The project is divided between two students:
- Student 1: Focus on spatial ecology using radiotelemetry and GIS
- Student 2: Focus on hunting behavior and diet analysis using accelerometry and field video
Shared Tasks: Habitat modeling, mark-recapture studies, and collaborative publication.
🔬 Tools & Techniques You’ll Master
- Radiotelemetry
- Accelerometry and 4K field video analysis
- Mark-recapture methods
- Habitat sampling and ecological modeling
- GIS (ArcGIS Pro, QGIS) and R programming for spatial data
- Safe venomous snake handling techniques
💰 Stipend, Benefits & Support
- Annual Stipend:
- Year 1: $26,159
- Year 3: $27,794
- Health Insurance: Fully covered
- Tuition Waiver: Included for 6 semesters
- Project Support: Field equipment, vehicles, and travel to scientific conferences (e.g., JMIH)
Funding Source: Texas Office of the Comptroller – Endangered Species Management Research
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Required:
- B.S. in Biology, Wildlife Biology, Zoology, or related discipline
- GPA ≥ 3.0 (Science courses)
- Valid driver’s license
- Physically able to hike, carry 40 lbs, and work in 100°F+ field conditions
Preferred:
- Prior venomous snake handling experience
- GIS and R/Python proficiency
- Experience with radio telemetry or accelerometry
🌎 International Applicants Welcome!
WTAMU encourages applications from qualified international students, provided they meet English proficiency and visa eligibility requirements.
🏞️ Why Study at WTAMU in Canyon, Texas?
- Cost of Living: ≈18% below U.S. average
- Proximity: Quick access to Amarillo International Airport
- Nature Access: Explore Palo Duro Canyon—the 2nd largest canyon in the U.S.
- Community: Supportive two-student research cohort with strong faculty mentorship
- Career Outcomes: Graduates gain job-ready skills in GIS, coding, spatial analysis, and wildlife conservation
📬 How to Apply
Email a single PDF file (titled: LastName_Massasauga_MS.pdf) to Dr. Dylan Maag at dmaag@wtamu.edu. Include:
- Letter of interest (your fit for the research + career goals)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Unofficial academic transcripts
- Contact details for 3 academic/professional references
Email Subject Line: M.S. MASSASAUGA APPLICATION
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for Zoom interviews within two weeks after August 4, 2025.
❓ FAQs
Q: Do I need prior venomous-snake experience?
A: No. Comprehensive safety training is provided following WTAMU and AZA guidelines.
Q: Will I gain technical skills?
A: Yes! You’ll learn R (e.g., adehabitatHR), GIS, and behavioral video analysis—highly marketable in ecology and data science sectors.
Q: Can international students apply?
A: Absolutely! WTAMU supports international applicants with proper visa arrangements.
🎓 Why Apply for This Opportunity?
- Impact-Driven: Help guide conservation policy for endangered Texas grasslands
- Competitive Stipend: Above-average funding with no teaching duties
- Tech-Forward Research: Use of animal-borne sensors and spatial models
- Career Readiness: Build a unique, field-tested skill set that’s in demand
- Networking Edge: Collaborate with biologists from Texas Parks & Wildlife and private landowners
🔗 Apply Now to Start Your Conservation Journey
Submit your application PDF by August 25, 2025, and become part of a pioneering study that merges herpetology, conservation, and spatial analytics. This assistantship offers real-world impact, career-boosting skills, and a chance to make a difference in the ecology of Texas.