Scholarship Opportunity: PhD Position in Sensory Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Lab at AMNH

Introduction to the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)

The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), located in New York City, is one of the most renowned museums in the world, dedicated to advancing knowledge about the natural world and human cultures. Founded in 1869, the museum houses over 34 million specimens and artifacts, including fossils, minerals, meteorites, and cultural treasures from around the globe. It is particularly famous for its impressive dinosaur skeletons and immersive dioramas depicting ecosystems and wildlife. In addition to its extensive collections, the AMNH is a leader in scientific research and education, offering cutting-edge exhibitions, research opportunities, and educational programs that engage visitors of all ages in the wonders of science and natural history.

Overview of the PhD Position

The SEEC Lab at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) is seeking applicants for a PhD position in sensory ecology, evolutionary biology, and conservation. The research aims to investigate how light pollution alters insect-bat interactions. This is a well-funded position within AMNH’s Richard Gilder Graduate School PhD Program in Comparative Biology, which offers a robust academic environment and access to world-class resources.

Program Description

The Richard Gilder Graduate School provides an accelerated 4-year PhD program focusing on evolutionary biology, offering an interdisciplinary approach to ecology, conservation, and evolution research. The successful applicant will benefit from cutting-edge technology and high-end research facilities at AMNH and the Southwestern Research Station (SWRS), where studies will include 3D high-speed videography and ultrasonic bioacoustics. The research will focus on understanding how moth-bat interactions are influenced by artificial light pollution in outdoor flight facilities. The project leverages the museum’s world-class Lepidoptera collections and advanced data collection and analysis methods, providing the student with a unique opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research in an outdoor setting.

The American Museum of Natural History offers exciting opportunities for students seeking PhD positions and scholarships in the USA. With its commitment to scientific research and education, the museum provides various fully funded scholarships for those pursuing advanced degrees in fields such as anthropology, paleontology, and conservation science. These PhD scholarships cover tuition, research expenses, and sometimes even living costs, making it a highly sought-after scholarship opportunity for scholars worldwide. Whether you’re looking to explore PhD positions or other educational programs, the museum’s dynamic research environment makes it an ideal place to grow academically while contributing to groundbreaking scientific discoveries.

Key Research Area

• Insect-Bat Interactions: Focus on how environmental factors like light pollution alter the behavior of insects and their predators, particularly bats.
• Sensory Ecology: Investigating the sensory adaptations of organisms to environmental changes, including human-induced impacts such as light pollution.
• Conservation: The broader implications of light pollution on species survival, biodiversity, and ecological balance.

Institution: American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)

Department: Sensory Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation (SEEC) Lab

Program: Richard Gilder Graduate School PhD Program in Comparative Biology

Field of Study: Sensory Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Conservation

Application Deadline: November 1, 2024

Position Availability: Open until filled

Supervisor: Jesse Barber, PhD

Duration: 4 years

Funding: Competitive stipend

Eligibility and Requirements

Who Should Apply:

• Applicants with a strong background in sensory ecology, evolutionary biology, or conservation.
• Candidates should have previous experience in research involving data analysis and the dissemination of research findings through peer-reviewed publications.
• Applicants should demonstrate strong analytical and research skills, particularly with respect to experimental design and the use of video and acoustic technology in biological research.

How to Apply:

To apply, interested candidates should submit:

• A letter of interest that outlines their research background and interests in sensory ecology.
• A CV detailing relevant academic achievements and research experience.

Applications should be submitted to Dr. Jesse Barber, head of the SEEC Lab, at [email protected]. The deadline for submission is November 1, 2024. However, the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.

Link:  https://www.amnh.org/

For online application : https://careers.amnh.org/postings/search

For detailed visit official website : https://www.amnh.org/

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The American Museum of Natural History is not only a world-renowned institution for research and education but also offers unique scholarship opportunities for students pursuing advanced studies in natural sciences. For cutting-edge research in fields such as anthropology, paleontology, and conservation. These PhD positions come with financial support for tuition and living expenses, making the American Museum of Natural History an attractive destination for scholars seeking a scholarship in the USA. Whether through its educational programs or scholarship opportunities, the American Museum of Natural History fosters academic excellence and research innovation, making it a leading institution for aspiring scientists.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the primary focus of the PhD project?

The primary focus of the project is to investigate how light pollution affects interactions between insects (specifically moths) and bats. The study will use 3D high-speed videography and ultrasonic bioacoustics to document moth-bat interactions in real time in an outdoor flight facility.

What makes this PhD program unique?

This PhD program is part of the Richard Gilder Graduate School PhD Program in Comparative Biology at AMNH, offering an accelerated 4-year doctoral degree in evolutionary biology. The program provides access to state-of-the-art research tools and a diverse array of biological collections, giving students the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects in sensory ecology and conservation.

What qualifications are required to apply?

Applicants should have a background in sensory ecology, evolutionary biology, or conservation, as well as experience with data analysis and research dissemination through peer-reviewed publications. Prior experience in handling video and acoustic data would be advantageous.

What resources will the successful applicant have access to?

The successful applicant will have access to AMNH’s extensive Lepidoptera collections, as well as the Southwestern Research Station (SWRS), an outdoor research facility where the moth-bat interactions will be studied. The project will also use advanced technology like 3D high-speed videography and ultrasonic bioacoustics to capture data.

Where will the research be conducted?

The research will take place in both the museum and the field. Specifically, fieldwork will be conducted at the Southwestern Research Station (SWRS), which provides a controlled outdoor environment for studying moth-bat interactions. The indoor component will involve accessing AMNH’s Lepidoptera collections.

What are the key deadlines for this application?

The deadline to submit an application is November 1, 2024, but the position will remain open until filled. It’s recommended to apply early to ensure your application is considered.

What is the application process?

To apply, candidates need to submit a letter of interest that outlines their background in sensory ecology and research interests, along with a CV to Dr. Jesse Barber via email at [email protected].

What is the duration of the PhD program?

The PhD program is designed to be completed in 4 years, offering a fast-paced and accelerated path to earning a doctoral degree in evolutionary biology.

What kind of funding support is provided?

The PhD position comes with a competitive stipend, providing financial support throughout the 4-year program. This includes coverage of research-related expenses and living stipends.

Who should I contact for more information about the position?

For further inquiries about the position, applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Jesse Barber, head of the SEEC Lab, via email at [email protected].

Conclusion

This PhD opportunity at the American Museum of Natural History is ideal for students interested in advancing their careers in sensory ecology, evolutionary biology, and conservation. With access to cutting-edge technology, a supportive academic environment, and field research opportunities at the Southwestern Research Station (SWRS), students will be able to conduct groundbreaking research on the impact of light pollution on insect-bat interactions. If you are passionate about ecological research, have a strong background in data analysis, and are interested in studying the effects of human-induced changes on wildlife, this program offers an exceptional platform for advancing your academic and research career.