Project overview and responsibilities: Freshwater exposure is a commonly recognized threat to bottlenose dolphins in the MS Sound and many areas around the world. We will apply stable isotope analysis tools to assess spatial and temporal trends in freshwater exposure using stranded bottlenose dolphins' tissues as well as to determine how dolphin tissue decomposition affects isotopic ratios.

The student will work with Dr. Sandra B. Correa, an Associate Professor in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture. Duties include field sample collection in coastal rivers of Mississippi and laboratory work in coordination with collaborators at the College of Veterinary Medicine. In addition, the student will help prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication, present results at professional conferences, and complete the requirements for an M.S. degree in 2 years.

Qualifications: Undergraduate degree in wildlife and fisheries, biology, ecology, natural resources, biochemistry, or related field, excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, and strong interpersonal skills to work collaboratively. The ideal candidate will have an interest in aquatic ecology and statistics. This position is seasonally field intensive and will require close coordination with collaborators for sampling. A valid driver's license is required. Experience trailering and operating boats and developing and implementing standard operation procedures for laboratory work is highly desirable. GPA > 3.0.

Location: This position is based on the MSU campus in Starkville, Mississippi.

Start date: review will begin immediately and close when filled. Start date is August 16, 2026.