Description
The McCracken Lab at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi seeks a highly motivated and talented PhD student to join our collaborative and dynamic research team starting Spring 2027. This position offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research on the Texas tortoise (Gopherus berlandieri), a species of significant ecological and conservation importance in South Texas. This research will involve a combination of fieldwork in rugged South Texas habitats, laboratory analysis, and ecological modeling, focusing on aspects of movement ecology, habitat and resource use, and/or translocation biology of the Texas tortoise.
About the Position
Primary Responsibilities:
- Conduct field-based research on tortoise movement ecology using GPS telemetry and other innovative tracking methods.
- Conduct habitat-use, resource-selection, and behavioral observations to characterize Texas tortoise ecology and inform conservation management.
- Develop research questions and complementary study components within the scope of ongoing projects, while ensuring the fulfillment of funding agency objectives and reporting requirements.
- Perform data analyses and prepare technical reports, manuscripts, and other deliverables for grant-funded projects.
- Support investigations of disease prevalence and its effects on tortoise health, survival, and population dynamics.
- Evaluate translocation outcomes and develop evidence-based strategies to improve conservation effectiveness.
- Collaborate with state and federal agencies, conservation organizations, and private landowners to advance Texas tortoise management and recovery efforts.
Additional Opportunities:
- Mentor undergraduate researchers in the lab and field.
- Present findings at regional, national, and international conferences.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in biology, wildlife ecology, or related field.
- Experience with fieldwork in adverse conditions, particularly with herpetofauna or other wildlife.
- Experience in data management and strong analytical skills.
- Experience working with the programming language R.
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal in English) and a history of collaboration in professional team settings.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within interdisciplinary research teams.
- Strong self-motivation, professionalism, positive attitude, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Skills in GIS, telemetry, or statistical modeling are highly desirable.
- Experience working with state or federal agencies, non-profit organizations, or private stakeholders.
- Experience presenting research findings at scientific conferences.
- Experience preparing manuscripts for publication or grant reports.
- A passion for conservation and working in challenging field conditions.
What We Offer
- Fully funded research expenses.
- Funding opportunities for a competitive stipend and tuition coverage.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.
- Mentorship from an engaged and interdisciplinary team of researchers.
- The opportunity to work in diverse ecosystems focusing on applied conservation science.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following:
1. A cover letter detailing research interests, career goals, and relevant experience (up to 400 words)
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV).
3. Contact information for three academic references.
4. Academic transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable initially).
Please submit the above documents as a single PDF file Tortoise-PHD-LastName_Firstname.pdf and use the Apply button to submit. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to those received by September 14, 2026. The chosen applicant must submit all application documents by October 1, 2026.
Join the McCracken Lab
TAMU-CC, located in Corpus Christi, TX, offers a unique coastal setting with access to diverse ecosystems and a vibrant research community. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the conservation of this iconic species and its habitats.
