Graduate Research Assistantship: Tree Rings, Climatic Resiliency and Forest Carbon Sequestration
A graduate research assistantship (GRA) position at the MS level is available starting Fall 2010 semester (August 16, 2010) in the Department of Forestry (www.for.msu.edu) at Michigan State University (MSU). This position includes a tuition waiver and health benefits, and a competitive stipend. The student has the opportunity to work on a variety of projects that examine the potential long-term effectiveness of forest management practices towards maximizing carbon sequestration rates and promoting climatic resiliency in MSU forest properties. Forest management practices on MSU forest properties have included harvesting, site preparation, weed control, thinnings, prescribed burning, and applied forest tree improvement. Managed species include red oak, hybrid poplar, and red pine. However, little is understood of the impact of these forest practices on annual-scale rates of carbon sequestration in above-ground biomass and whether these practices have the potential to lead to increased climatic resiliency in these managed forests. The main methodological approach is to use tree-ring analysis (dendrochronology) techniques to estimate annual changes in forest carbon sequestration rates and climatic resiliency. This research will contribute to adaptive and sustainable forest management options in the face of future climate change. Qualifications: Applicants should preferably have a BS in forestry, biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or a similarly related natural resource field. Preference will be given to applicants that are highly self-motivated, possess a strong work ethic, and have strong oral and written communication skills. A background or strong interest in conducting field based research and working in a laboratory environment is desirable. A cumulative GPA greater than 3.0 in undergraduate coursework and a GRE score over 1100 are desirable. Undergraduate degree requirements must be completed before the start date of the position. If you are interested, please contact: Dr. Sophan Chhin Assistant Professor, Silviculture and Forest Ecosystem Productivity Department of Forestry Michigan State University 126 Natural Resources Building East Lansing, MI 48824-1222 Tel: (517) 353-7251 Fax: (517) 432-1143 E-mail: ch...@msu.edu Web: https://www.msu.edu/~chhin/ In your initial inquiry, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, unofficial transcripts and GRE scores, and contact information of three references. Applications will be considered immediately and continue until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration please submit material by May 24, 2010. Please e-mail all application material to Dr. Sophan Chhin (ch...@msu.edu).
