[Taxacom] Ph.D./M.S. Positions in Systematic Entomology at Texas A&M University

[John D. Oswald]

Ph.D./M.S. Positions in Systematic Entomology at Texas A&M University

Two positions for new Ph.D./M.S. students in systematic entomology are 
available in the laboratory of Dr. John Oswald, Department of 
Entomology, Texas A&M University. Both positions will be filled for Fall 
Semester 2010. The students will participate as the primary trainees in 
a 5-year NSF PEET project to train the next generation of insect 
systematists with specialized expertise in the family Myrmeleontidae 
(order Neuroptera) -- the antlions. The students will undertake 
monographic research on selected antlion taxa, and conduct phylogenetic 
studies on antlions using both morphological and molecular data. The 
students will have opportunities to participate in a wide variety of 
systematics training activities, including (1) the 
development/refinement of skills in taxonomic monography; (2) 
participation in national (USA) and international field excursions, 
museum visits and scientific meetings; (3) development/refinement of 
skills associated with the capture and analysis of data for 
morphological and molecular phylogenetics; and (4) contributing to the 
further development of the neuropteran biodiversity informatics portal 
the Lacewing Digital Library (http://lacewing.tamu.edu/).

Applicants for these positions should have a strong interest in insect 
systematics (both taxonomy and phylogenetics) and be working toward 
career goals that include a professional position in this field. 
Demonstrable experience and/or interest in several of the following 
areas will strengthen a candidate's qualifications: insect taxonomy, 
revisionary/monographic studies, insect morphology, molecular lab 
methods, phylogenetic analytical methods, systematics publications, 
biodiversity informatics (particularly web design & development), field 
experience, and international travel. Proficiency in English and good 
communication skills are essential. A Masters degree in entomology or a 
related field is preferred, but not required. Previous experience 
working with one of the neuropterid insect orders (Neuroptera, 
Megaloptera or Raphidioptera) is not required. U.S. citizenship is not 
required.

Applications should consist of: (1) a cover letter, (2) a curriculum 
vitae, (3) a statement of research experience that explains your 
background, specific interest in the project, and experience/interests 
in the topic areas outlined above, and (4) the names and contact 
information for at least three scientists who have agreed to serve as 
professional references. Interested persons should send their 
application documents to Dr. John Oswald at j-oswald at tamu.edu.

The students selected for these positions will be required to 
successfully enroll as graduate students in the Department of Entomology 
at Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA. For information on 
the department and the application process see: 
http://insects.tamu.edu/futurestudents/grads.html. For additional 
information about policies and entrance requirements pertaining to 
university admission see: http://admissions.tamu.edu/graduate/default.aspx.

Dr. John D. Oswald (j-oswald at tamu.edu)
Associate Professor
Department of Entomology
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX  77843-2475
USA
Phone: 979-862-3507