Website Nature Conservancy of Canada
Partnership
The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is Canada’s leading private land conservation organization. Since 1962, NCC has helped conserve 14 million hectares (35 million acres), coast to coast to coast. Research by Weston Family Conservation Science Fellows supports conservation of important natural areas and biological diversity. Learn more on our Fellowship Program webpage (www.natureconservancy.ca/westonfellowship).
Project summary
The objective of this project is to examine the effectiveness of disturbance-based prairie management activities (fire, grazing, mechanical brush control) in improving and maintaining habitat suitability and population recovery for Poweshiek Skipperling and Dakota Skipper in Manitoba. Fieldwork will involve visits to various sites for vegetation, soil, landscape feature, and skipper population surveys. Research may also include GIS/remote sensing and habitat distribution modelling. The student will work with Dr. Nicola Koper (University of Manitoba) and Dr. Richard Westwood (University of Winnipeg) and will be supported by NCC’s Weston Family Senior Scientist. The student will register in the PhD in Natural Resources and Environmental Management program at the Natural Resources Institute, University of Manitoba, under the supervision of Dr. Koper. This internationally renowned interdisciplinary graduate program is designed to prepare graduates for solving complex conservation and management problems in a changing world.
Fellowship details
The Fellowship will begin in May or September 2022 and consist of four years of support with a minimum $21,000 annual stipend. Fellows will also be allocated up to $5,000 annually to cover costs associated with professional development opportunities and periodic Fellows meetings. Fellowship funding is not intended to be used for research costs; these costs, including field accommodation, will be covered separately.
Fellowship requirements
A master’s degree in science or a related field is required. Successful applicants must have a strong, demonstrated interest in and knowledge of ecology and conservation. Preference will be given to applicants with experience and interest in lepidopteran/insect ecology and prairie ecology/management. Expertise in GIS is an asset. Fellowships are open to international students, but preference may be given to Canadian applicants. Applicants must meet the graduate admissions criteria for the University of Manitoba (minimum B+ average; GPA above 3.5 on a 4.5 scale). A valid driver’s license is required.
How to apply
NCC is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive Fellowship program. We welcome and encourage applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.
We value and incorporate diverse traditions, heritage, knowledge and experiences in our mission and in our workplaces. We celebrate the full participation of people from all walks of life as we work towards common goals. We strive for a conservation movement in which equity, diversity and inclusion are the norm. This is our continuous commitment: to promote healthy people, healthy communities and a healthy planet for everyone.
If you are interested in the Fellowship, please upload your CV, contact information for three references, unofficial transcripts, and a detailed cover letter to https://1.adp.com/Pi9MvhWiRFi. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Questions can be directed to Samantha Knight at samantha.knight@natureconservancy.ca.
The Weston Family Conservation Science Fellowship Program is made possible through the generous support of the Weston Family Foundation.