PHD POSITION - RANGELAND ECOLOGY - 'COWS AND CREEKS'

Project overview: This Ph.D. project will examine the role of beaver dam analogs (BDAs) in prairie streams within the Northern Great Plains. Specifically, the goals of this project are to (1) use BDAs to improve riparian vegetation and function within a Northern Great Plains prairie stream; (2) incorporate VF technology to manage livestock grazing within pastures with active riparian restoration; and 3) develop a framework that integrates state and transition models with stream evolution models to promote greater adoption of riparian restoration at the landscape scale. This project fills an essential gap in knowledge on integrating innovative grazing solutions with riparian restoration efforts, ultimately improving natural resource management on stream miles across public and private landscapes. The student will contribute to study design, data collection and analysis, and outreach products, including peer-reviewed manuscripts, that translate findings into management-relevant insights. Responsibilities include: • Data collection on the effects of BDAs • Data collection and management of virtual fencing software • Data management and analysis using R statistical software • Scientific writing, including a dissertation and peer-reviewed manuscripts • Stakeholder engagement and communication through workshops and Extension articles, etc. • Professional development through conference presentations and networking • Adherence to SDSU research compliance requirements (IACUC) Required qualifications: • M.S. in rangeland ecology, natural resources, animal science, ecology, or a closely related field • Interest in riparian restoration, grazing management, virtual fencing, and applied research • Strong work ethic, curiosity, and comfort working independently in rural field settings • Effective communication • Strong time-management and ability to meet deadlines • Willingness to engage in stakeholder-driven research and applied outreach Preferred qualifications: • Previous experience working around/with beef cattle • Knowledge of statistical programming software (e.g., R) • Ability to lead and mentor undergraduate research technicians • Comfort troubleshooting challenges without constant direction Logistics / support: • Funding: Research assistantship includes a monthly stipend and tuition remission. Health insurance is not provided by SDSU. • Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. • Start date: Early 2027; first field season is summer 2027