The Elowe Lab at Northern Michigan University is recruiting a Masters (MS) student to work on bird ecophysiology (start date Fall 2025). We use techniques ranging from tissue-level gene expression to whole-animal measurements of metabolic rate and behavior to understand the physiological mechanisms that allow birds to persist across harsh conditions. Depending on the interests of the candidate, various potential projects are available in the lab and/or field, including studies of physiological flexibility in response to cold temperatures, acute exercise, or during recovery from migratory flight. This position includes a full tuition waiver and a graduate assistantship (starting at $11,461 per year) for two years (four semesters).

Applicants should have:

• A strong interest and/or course background in animal physiology
• An ability to work independently and collaboratively
• An inclusive attitude
• An interest in undergraduate education and/or mentorship
• Willingness to work with birds in the field or captivity and/or tissues from birds
• An interest in lab techniques (e.g. qPCR, enzyme assays, metabolite quantification)
• A minimum 3.0 GPA (no exceptions)

The work may vary depending on the applicant’s interests, and therefore experience in the lab, field, or both may be strengths; however, training will be provided for the right applicant even without prior experience (including bird handling). Therefore, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn new skills are the most important qualifications, and applications from all students—particularly from historically excluded or marginalized groups—are encouraged!

To apply informally, please send a short statement on why you are interested in the position, an updated CV/resume, and unofficial transcripts to Dr. Cory Elowe (celowe@nmu.edu). All applications received by January 10, 2025 will receive full consideration, and two references will be required after initial consideration.

For more information on the graduate program at Northern Michigan University, please see here: https://nmu.edu/biology/masters-science-biology