Ph.D. Assistantship – Raven Movement Ecology

Location: Prairie Canada

Dr. Adam Janke & Dr. Gunnar Kramer – Iowa State University
Dr. Jay VonBank, Dr. Todd Arnold, Dr. Frank Rohwer & Jacob Bushaw – Delta Waterfowl Foundation

PROJECT BACKGROUND
Delta Waterfowl, in collaboration with Iowa State University (ISU), is recruiting a highly motivated Ph.D. student to investigate the movement ecology of common ravens and their role in waterfowl nest depredation within the prairie ecosystem of Saskatchewan, Canada. Ravens represent a relatively new and increasingly abundant nest predator in this region, and their expanding distribution poses emerging challenges for waterfowl reproductive success.

This research will focus on quantifying spatial and temporal movement patterns of ravens using advanced GPS telemetry. The student will investigate how raven movement strategies, habitat-use dynamics, and associated behaviors contribute to waterfowl nest depredation. Results from this work will directly inform predator management strategies to enhance conservation planning for waterfowl populations within the northern Prairie Pothole Region. The selected candidate will collaborate closely with scientists from Delta Waterfowl and Iowa State University. Field operations will begin in April 2026 in Saskatchewan, and the graduate assistantship will formally begin at Iowa State University, Ames, IA, in August 2026.

The assistantship is supported by a combination of teaching and research assistantships that provides a $30,000 per year stipend, health insurance, and a 100% tuition waiver.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• B.S. in ecology, wildlife biology, wildlife management, or a related discipline 
• Eligibility for admission to Iowa State University (including a GPA >3.0)
• Demonstrated commitment to high-quality, collaborative scientific research

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• M.S. (strongly preferred) in ecology, wildlife biology, wildlife management or a related discipline
• Prior experience in movement ecology, avian ecology, or waterfowl nesting ecology
• Experience with avian capture, safe handling procedures, or deployment of tracking transmitters
• Ability to identify waterfowl species, particularly breeding hens
• Proficiency in data management, statistical analysis, and movement-modeling frameworks
• Strong interpersonal skills, with demonstrated ability to work independently and lead field crews under challenging conditions

APPLICATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 16, 2026

To apply, please submit application materials (CV with contact information for 3 professional references, unofficial transcripts, and a cover letter describing career goals and professional interests) to https://forms.gle/KjKTv53qmJF39XjB9

For additional information, contact:
Dr. Gunnar Kramer: grk@iastate.edu
Dr. Adam Janke: ajanke@iastate.edu
Dr. Jay VonBank: jvonbank@deltawaterfowl.org