Position Number: 002-1065 Post Doctorate Research Associate
Title: Post Doctorate Research Associate in Spatial Vegetation Modeling and Landscape Ecology Location: Department of Forest Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon Position Starting Date: August 7, 2006 (negotiable) Application Closing Date: July 3, 2006 The Department of Forest Science at Oregon State University (OSU) seeks a Post Doctorate Research Associate in the field of spatial vegetation modeling and landscape ecology, as part of a cooperative, multi-disciplinary research effort with OSUs Institute of Natural Resources, OSUs Department of Forest Science, and the USDA Forest Service's Pacific Northwest Research Station (PNW). The researcher will join the Landscape Ecology, Modeling, Mapping, and Analysis (LEMMA) team located at the Forestry Sciences Lab, which consists of two other scientists and three Faculty Research Assistants. At least two years of funding are available. Responsibilities: This position involves conducting a program of research in spatial ecological modeling of vegetation and land cover at ecoregional scales in the Pacific Northwest. Research objectives are to: (1) improve understanding of environmental and disturbance factors controlling patterns of vegetation composition and structure; (2) investigate alternative methods to model and spatially predict vegetation over large, multi-ownership regions; and (3) translate resulting concepts and methods into maps and other products needed for conservation planning, natural resource management, and ecological research. The modeling will utilize an array of spatial data on satellite imagery, climate, topography, soils, disturbance history, and land ownership. Vegetation data are from large field plot datasets from regional forest inventories and ecology programs, natural resource management agencies, and other sources. A variety of statistical methods such as multivariate gradient analysis, classification and regression trees, generalized linear models, and nearest-neighbor imputation may be investigated. The researcher will work collaboratively within a team of other researchers, GIS and database analysts, and programmers on the LEMMA team, but will work relatively independently in planning and conducting their own program of research within the overall problem area. S/he will communicate research findings to diverse audiences, including other scientists and natural resource managers, at meetings and workshops and through peer-reviewed publications. The researcher will be responsible for developing maps of existing vegetation (Ecological Systems) and land cover in central and western Oregon and northern California in support of the national Gap Analysis Program of USGS, and compiling the final reports. The vegetation maps also will be used in conservation planning, natural resource management, and landscape modeling and research by a variety of other agencies and research organizations. Qualifications: Required: 1. PhD in ecology, botany, forestry, or related field. 2. Knowledge of concepts and methods of quantitative ecology, gradient analysis, spatial modeling, and statistics. 3. Ability to manipulate and analyze a variety of large, complex spatial and relational databases. 4. Experience with geographic information systems (GIS) analysis and software. 5. Ability to work relatively unsupervised, plan work, achieve results, and meet deadlines. Preferred: 1. Knowledge of biogeography and plant communities of the Pacific Northwest. 2. Familiarity with vegetation sampling designs and data formats. 3. Experience with satellite image processing. 4. Demonstrated scholarship through peer-reviewed publications and presentations. 5. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. 6. Ability to communicate and collaborate with a wide variety of clients in science, technical, and natural resource management communities. 7. A demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity. Employment conditions: Full time (1.0 FTE), 12-month, fixed-term, post doctorate research associate position. Reappointment is at the discretion of the Dean. Full-time annual salary is $45,000 to $52,000, depending on qualifications and experience. The incumbent is expected to work primarily in Corvallis, with occasional travel to attend meetings and workshops. For additional information: Contact Dr. Janet Ohmann, e-mail [EMAIL PROTECTED], or Jimmy Kagan, e-mail [EMAIL PROTECTED] To apply: Send a statement of interest describing qualifications and experience, complete curriculum vitae, unofficial copies of transcripts for all university work, and names, e-mail addresses, and telephone numbers of three references by July 3, 2006 to: Ryan Hink, Department of Forest Science, Oregon State University, 321 Richardson Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331-5752, [EMAIL PROTECTED] Incomplete applications will not be considered. Oregon State University in an Affirmative Action Equal Opportunity Employer and has a policy of being responsive to the needs of dual career couples.
