The successful candidate will develop a research project to understand and quantify selection of day roosts by two bat species (Myotis septentrionalis and Myotis lucifugus). Myotis septentrionalis was listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 2015; we know little about habitat selection of this species in Montana, where they occur in riparian corridors dominated by cottonwood and ash.  The federal status of Myotis lucifugus is currently under review; although this species is currently common in Montana, very little work has focused on documenting specific roosting features in eastern Montana.

The project is a collaboration with Bureau of Land Management, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, and other agencies and the research will inform management and conservation. Specific research questions will be determined jointly by the advisor and selected candidate.  The student will pursue a M.S. degree at Montana State University in the Department of Ecology (http://www.montana.edu/ecology), advised by Dr. Andrea Litt (http://www.montana.edu/litt/).  The Litt lab is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, as we believe these are strengths that are critical to our work.

Required Qualifications: B.S. in wildlife science, ecology, zoology, or closely related field. A strong work ethic, good verbal and written communication skills, ability to work independently and as a productive member of a research team, and ability to work under adverse field conditions are essential. Research will occur in northeastern Montana, requiring spending extended periods away from Bozeman.

Students should have an average GPA of 3.0 in biology courses; 3.0 average in courses taken during the junior and senior years; and 2.5 average in chemistry, physics and mathematics courses.  However, interested parties are encouraged to apply even if these minimums aren’t met.

Preferred Qualifications: Background or interest in mammalogy, quantitative ecology, and habitat selection. Experience capturing, handling, and identifying bats, especially the focal species.  Experience with radio telemetry, acoustic monitoring, hiking, and some experience with plant identification. Experience working and communicating with other biologists, landowners, and the public.

Stipend/Salary: The student will be supported by research assistantships ($2000/month, plus insurance) and tuition/fees also will be covered.

Start Date: January 2022

Application Deadline: We will begin reviewing applications on 8 October 2021 and will continue until a candidate is selected.

To Apply: Please send (1) a cover letter focused on the listed qualifications, as well as how the opportunity would help further career goals, (2) resume/cv, (3) unofficial copies of transcripts, and (4) contact information for 3 references to: Dr. Andrea Litt ([email protected])