Position Announcement

M.S. Graduate Research Assistantship, Range Science

Department of Natural Resource Management
South Dakota State University

We have a position available for an MS student to study the effects of ultra-high stocking density grazing (mob grazing). This project will involve a multidisciplinary team approach (soil science, range science, and weed science) to evaluate the nutrient cycling and pasture productivity of ultra-high stocking density grazing at several locations across South Dakota. We will be working directly with producers who will be practicing this grazing strategy. Students will have a chance to further develop their knowledge of grazing systems and the mechanistic components involved in nutrient cycling, plant competition, and productivity. Students will have opportunity to learn field and laboratory techniques, and develop skills in outreach.

South Dakota State University is located in Brookings, SD approximately 1 hour north of Sioux Falls on I-29 and has an undergraduate enrollment of 12,000 students. Stipends of $17,500 with 2/3 tuition reduction for M.S. students are available beginning January 2012 or May 2012. For more information on our program and South Dakota State University visit our website at http://www.sdstate.edu/nrm/. Candidates are encouraged to submit a letter of interest or email to: Dr. Alexander "Sandy" Smart, Ph.D., Department of Natural Resource Management, South Dakota State University, Box 2170, Brookings, SD 57007-0392. (605-688-4017); Alexander.smart@sdstate.edu.