Graduate Student Assistantship, University of Maine

The assistantship is to study the interaction between mycorrhizal fungi and pollination in wild blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium) under different temperature and precipitation scenarios.  This is a collaborative project with two co-advisors, Dr. Phil Fanning, entomologist, and Dr. Seanna Annis, mycologist.   You will also be working with plant physiologists, sustainable agriculturists, blueberry specialists and others working on the same multidisciplinary project.  This project will involve identifying the microbiome in wild blueberry roots and examining pollination parameters in this large experiment set up at University of Maine in Orono, Maine.  We are looking for a student with experience in fungal biology, particularly mycorrhizae and an interest in pollination. Research assistantship funding is available for two years, and includes a yearly stipend of $26,667, 13 credit hours of tuition and payment of half of the cost of the required graduate health insurance.  The third year of research will be supported by grant funds or a teaching assistantship. Interested applicants should contact  Dr. Seanna Annis (sannis@maine.edu) and Dr. Phil Fanning (Philip.Fanning@maine.edu) to inquire about this position.

Competitive applicants will have an master’s degree or a bachelors with prior work experience in fungal biology, particularly mycorrhizae, and an interest in pollination. Familiarity with mycology, entomology, and experience with statistics. A US or international driver’s license (or the ability to get one soon after starting this position) and a clean driving record are required.