*Grassland Community and Ecosystem Ecology* We are seeking a postdoctoral research associate to join an ongoing study of the effects of invasion by endophyte infected grasses on the community and ecosystem dynamics of grasslands. In a large scale field experiment, we are tracking the ecological impacts of 31 different cultivars of three grass species (perennial ryegrass, tall fescue and meadow fescue) on native grasslands. Experimental plots have been invaded with grass cultivars that are either endophyte-free, endophyte-infected, or in some cases infected by novel endophytes. The successful candidate will assess how the experimental treatments affect community composition and ecosystem functioning, and have the opportunity to develop collaborative research using the established study site or to address other novel questions related to grass-endophyte interactions. In addition to participating in and supervising data collection, the incumbent will also be responsible for data analysis and manuscript preparation. Applicants must have (or be close to finishing) a Ph.D. in community or ecosystem ecology, grassland ecology, plant biology or related field, as well as experience publishing manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals. Experience with plant identification, vegetation analysis, and studying community dynamics and biogeochemical processes is desirable. Salary is commensurate with experience. This position is for two years with the possibility of renewal. The preferred start date is January 2010, but is negotiable. To apply, please send a cover letter explaining your interest in and match for the position, a CV, and the names and contact information for three referees to Jonathan Newman (jnewm...@uoguelph.ca), Department of Environmental Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, N1G 2W1, Ontario, Canada or Hafiz Maherali (maher...@uoguelph.ca), Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada. Please feel free to email either one of us at the above addresses if you have questions about the position. Review of applications will begin September 15th, 2009 and continue until the position is filled.
One of us (Hafiz Maherali) will be at the upcoming ESA meetings in Albuquerque. I am happy to meet with interested candidates to discuss the position. Please contact me via email to set up a meeting time. -------- Hafiz Maherali Department of Integrative Biology University of Guelph Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1 Canada
