Graduate opportunity
Institution: South Dakota State University, in collaboration with the USGS and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Location: Brookings, South Dakota, United States
Support: $26,000–$29,000 per year, full tuition remission, and research, travel, and professional development support
Application deadline: November 30, 2026. Review starts immediately; applications are accepted until filled.
Investigate the ecological value of small wetlands in agricultural landscapes of the Prairie Pothole Region. The research combines long-term waterfowl data, remote sensing, field validation, and spatial and statistical modeling to support wetland conservation and management decisions.
Qualifications
A relevant Master’s degree in wildlife or wetland ecology, natural resources, geospatial or environmental science is expected. Exceptional bachelor’s degree candidates with strong quantitative skills may be considered. Preferred skills include wetland, waterfowl or landscape ecology; GIS and remote sensing; statistical modeling; and R or similar programming.
How to apply
Email Dr. Joshua D. Stafford a single PDF file with a cover letter describing research interests, experience, and career goals, a CV, and contact information for at least three references. Unofficial transcripts and GRE scores may be included if available or requested later. Contact Dr. Stafford for the full announcement.
Source: Conservation Opportunity’s Facebook announcement, Reviewed on October 12, 2026. Confirm availability and application details with the institution.