Ph.D. Assistantship in Climate Change and Forest Dynamics ‒ Colorado State University.
We seek a Ph.D. candidate to join a dynamic team of field, experimental and quantitative ecologists for a research project on climate change and forest dynamics starting June 1st, 2011. The research will focus on quantifying and modeling the response of tree species distribution and abundance to climate change. Rigorous field studies and experiments will be used to build quantitative relationships, and the results will be integrated in a spatially-explicit, individual-based dynamic forest simulator (SORTIE-ND; http://www.sortie-nd.org), where scenarios of climate change, range expansion/contraction, competitive interactions, and disturbance-climate dynamics (esp. fire) will be explored. This research will focus on linking field research and modeling, and the use of advanced data analysis based on likelihood methods and information theory. More information on this project and the broader research interests of the lab are available at: http://hla.colostate.edu/faculty/martin.htm This project requires a love of mountains, given the physically-demanding nature of fieldwork in the Rockies. The assistantship includes a graduate student stipend, health insurance benefits, and the cost of tuition. Colorado State University is located in Fort Collins, Colorado, known for its sunny clime, friendly denizens, and world class outdoor activities. Preferred Qualifications and Skills. We seek candidates with proficiency/experience in at least some of the following areas: * Field work experience * Spatial, GIS, and/or Remote Sensing experience * Interest or experience using quantitative models of forest dynamics (e.g. SORTIE). * Statistical, quantitative, and programming skills (R, S-plus, etc.). * Knowledge of the relevant flora of the Rocky Mountain region * Excellent writing and communication skills. Applications for this position should be submitted through CSU’s Graduate Degree Program in Ecology (http://www.ecology.colostate.edu/). The Graduate Degree Program in Ecology at Colorado State University is a highly-ranked, interdisciplinary program for graduate students and provides a vibrant community for ecological education and research. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, but no later than January 1st 2011. For information or questions please contact: Dr. Patrick H. Martin, patrick.mar...@colostate.edu
