Employer South Dakota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Natural Resource Management, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD Job Description, Responsibilities and Required Qualifications or Skills Project Description: Lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) populations have declined across much of their range in North America owing to factors that include overharvest, restricted migration, and habitat loss. Information about the abundance, reproductive status, and spawning success of Lake Sturgeon provides important information for species recovery. A cooperative effort between the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR) and the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (SD GFP) aims to return Lake Sturgeon to Big Stone Lake in the upper Minnesota River basin. Young Lake Sturgeon have been stocked annually by MN DNR in Big Stone Lake since 2014. Survival of these fish has been good, with fish from older cohorts exceeding fifty inches. The goal of this project is to evaluate the effectiveness of stocking and habitat restoration efforts. By evaluating growth, movement and reproductive status of the Lake Sturgeon population, this study will help identify the importance of restored habitat to natural reproduction in the upper Minnesota River basin.Start date: Flexible, late May to late June 2025.To Apply: Please include the following application materials:(1) A 1–2-page cover letter describing your interest and experience related to the position.(2) Current Resume and a copy of academic transcripts (unofficial copies are fine).(3) Names and contact information for three references familiar with your background and work experience.Please email your application packet to Dr. Steven R. Chipps with “PhD Application” in the Subject Line. The committee will review applications until an acceptable candidate is found, with a preference for those received by February 20, 2025.Contact:Steve R. Chipps605-688-5467 Steven.Chipps@sdstate.edu (preferred contact) Education Required: M.S. degree in fisheries/aquatic sciences.Experience Required: Fish movement; sturgeon biology/ecology; fish physiology. Job Field: Fisheries Job Type: Assistantship Location Detail: Department of Natural Resource Management, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD Salary: $28,500-$30,500/y plus tuition waiver Application Deadline: Thu, 02/20/2025 - 12:00pm
