Two MS Assistantships in Bison Ecology and Management

MS Assistantships Available

Bison-Environment Interactions AND Bison-Stakeholder Engagement

Department of Natural Resource Management, South Dakota State University

 The Department of Natural Resource Management at South Dakota State University is seeking two MS research assistants to join a multidisciplinary team of faculty, post-docs, and technicians on a USDA-NRCS Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG) project with research focused on the ecology of bison grazing and stakeholder needs. One student will focus on the implications of bison grazing for grassland plant community structure and soil ecosystem function. This student will be based at our main campus in Brookings, SD, during the academic year and will live on a working bison ranch in western Nebraska during the summer. The second student will examine bison responses to grazing practices and stakeholder needs relative to bison as livestock and focusing on the intersection between ecology and the human dimensions of rangeland management. The second student will be based at the SDSU Center of Excellence for Bison Studies in Rapid City, SD.

Applicants for both positions must have a BSc in a related field, an interest in rangeland ecology and management, strong analytical skills and ability to add to them, an interest in working collaboratively within a large and diverse research group, excellent communication skills, and a willingness to publish impactful research. Prior research experience is preferred. Candidates with prior experience in rangeland field ecology are highly encouraged to apply to the Bison-Environment Interaction position while those with experience in spatial and qualitative methods are encouraged to apply for the Bison-Stakeholder Engagement position. Both positions begin 12 January with the possibility of an earlier start.

To apply, send as a single PDF file your CV; unofficial transcripts; a one-to-two-page letter describing your experience as it relates to this position, research interests, and career goals; and contact information for three professional references to Dr. Josh Leffler (Joshua.leffler@sdstate.edu) for the Bison-Environment Interaction position and to Dr. Rachel Short (Rachel.short@sdstate.edu) for the Bison-Stakeholder Engagement position. Candidates interested in the position should apply by 30 September 2025 for full consideration. Do not apply to the university prior to receiving an offer of an assistantship.