Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama =20
MS research assistantship available for a student to conduct research on the impact of hurricanes on Gulf coast marshes and the change in marsh vegetation following disturbances. The project will integrate aspects of paleoclimatology, surface elevation change, and vegetation dynamics to investigate how marsh communities have changed through time and how disturbances may impact plant productivity, sediment input, and marsh elevations in the future. This project is being conducted as part of a larger research program investigating the persistence of coastal marshes to global climate change and is funded by the USGS Climate Change Program. The student will work with researchers at the University of Alabama and the USGS National Wetlands Research Center. The successful applicant will be able to propose additional research to meet his or her specific interests, provided it fits within the broader goals of the program.=20 =20 Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in wetland or ecosystem ecology, or climate change research. Preference will be given to those with experience in field research. In addition to a two-year stipend and tuition, this position includes funds for fieldwork, sample processing, and some travel. For further information, contact Dr. Julia Cherry ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) by January 20, 2007. After initial contact, applicants interested in formally applying to the Department of Biological Studies must submit all materials by January 31, 2007 for Fall 2007 admission. =20 =20 =20
