Hello, We are seeking one graduate research assistantship (Ph.D.) to study the mechanisms and consequences of exotic plant invasions in rangelands near Streeter, ND. This research focuses on understanding how exotic grasses, particularly Kentucky bluegrass, invade rangelands, allowing us to develop targeted, effective management of said grasses while also understanding exotic plant invasion as a whole.
Background and Research Details: Invasive cool-season grasses degrade and suppress native rangelands across the globe. Kentucky bluegrass is particularly effective at invading rangelands. Management aimed at controlling invasive cool-season grasses use an ineffective and costly one-size-fits-all approach. Understanding what mechanisms allow cool-season grasses to invade and outcompete the surrounding native species will help develop more effective targeted management plans. The research involves a large field experiment examining the mechanisms underlying plant invasion. The experiment consists of 384 experimental plots designed to simulate Kentucky bluegrass invasion in the northern Great Plains so that we may assess its effects on the plant community and underlying soil. The findings of this study will help understand Kentucky bluegrass invasion in the northern Great Plains and formulate effective management strategies to mitigate the spread of this aggressive invader and simultaneously promote native biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by the region’s rangelands. Moreover, the results will provide a framework by which the mechanisms of other invasive plants can be assessed. Minimum Qualifications: * Master’s degree in Plant Ecology, Biology, Range Science, Natural Resource Management, or related field. * Experience with plant identification and sampling. * Data and experimental management and organizational skills/experience. * Willingness or experience working with prescribed fire. * Ability and willingness to travel and live at the field site (housing provided). * Ability and willingness to collect data in sometimes adverse conditions. * Excellent communication skills (verbal and written). * Valid driver’s license Preferred Qualifications: * History of working on and managing field experiments with experimental plots. * Experience with plant identification and sampling in the Great Plains. * Analytical experience using R or similar software. * Experience interacting and communicating research to non-scientific audiences * Strong leadership skills including experience supervising and mentoring team members, providing clear instructions, and fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. Start Date: After May 1st, 2025 Salary: $30,000/yr Location: Central Grasslands Research Extension Center, Streeter, ND Fargo, ND To apply: Submit one document to Kevin Sedivec ([email protected])* that includes: 1. A cover letter discussing your qualifications and future goals 2. Curriculum vitae 3. Contact information for three professional references. *Posted on behalf of Kevin Sedivec by Esben Kjaer ([email protected]) To unsubscribe from this list please go to https://community.esa.org/confirm/?u=RhPWqPxFwODKvbkiT32nkIqRrsiSgulp
