The Swierk Lab seeks PhD students who are interested in developing questions that build upon our existing work in either of two research areas: 1) animal body coloration as a dynamic signal in conspecific and heterospecific communication, with an emphasis on visual modeling with respect to animal visual systems; and 2) specialized adaptations facilitating antipredator strategies, specifically the morphology, behavior, and respiratory physiology of rebreathing in semi-aquatic anoles. These projects will be developed using Neotropical anoles as a study system.
Qualifications:
- BA/BS in related field
- Motivated, independent, collaborative
- Relevant research experience
- Demonstrated scientific writing and communication skills
- Willing to spend 2-3 summer months/year conducting research at Neotropical field stations
Preferred candidates will also have:
- Strong statistical / quantitative skills
- Prior experience with tropical field research, animal behavior, and/or herpetology
- Completion of MS degree (though any candidate is welcome to apply)
- Interest in applying for external grants/fellowships (e.g., NSF GRFP)
Binghamton University (BU) is the top-ranked institution in the SUNY system and is consistently rated as one of the premier public universities in the Northeast. BU is included in the Carnegie Classification system’s “very high research activity” (R1) category. PhD students are supported by tuition-waived teaching assistantships. Our 930-acre campus is located in the Southern Tier of New York, between the Catskills and Finger Lakes, about a 3-hour drive from NYC. The region features abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation and a very reasonable cost of living.
To indicate interest: Please email LSwierk@binghamton.edu
