POST-DOC OPPORTUNITY: Incorporating Ecosystem Services into Restoration Planning and Evaluation
Applications are invited for a PostDoctoral Associate position at the Center for Environmental Sciences, Chesapeake Biological Lab, in Solomons, MD. The candidate will work with Dr. Lisa Wainger (waingerlab.cbl.umces.edu) and Dr. Margaret Palmer (www.palmerlab.umd.edu) to develop analysis tools to characterize and quantitatively assess ecosystem services to inform restoration policies and aquatic restoration choices. Ecosystem services are increasingly becoming the currency for measuring the potential benefits of restoration and preservation decisions, yet rigorous and systematic guidance for their measurement remains elusive. This effort will involve leveraging existing literature, data and models to develop a general framework for ecosystem service measurement that is specific to the needs of US Army Corps of Engineers. In addition, new research will be conducted to demonstrate cost-effective and evidence-based approaches for ecosystem service measurement using case studies of existing aquatic restoration projects. This work will involve periodic travel to Vicksburg, Mississippi. Successful applicants will be expected to integrate ongoing research to develop conceptual approaches and empirical models for measuring selected ecosystem processes in a manner that reflects socially beneficial outcomes. The applicant will be responsible for producing literature summaries, databases and models through collaborative efforts with other researchers, modelers and model end users. Field work is not expected but may be possible, if desired. The appointment will initially be for one year with possibility of renewal. The position offers a competitive salary plus benefits. Start date is flexible but current or near-term availability is desirable. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in a relevant area such as ecology, engineering or economics; strong analytical, computing and GIS skills; interest or experience in environmental policy; and excellent communication skills. Applications, including a cover letter, CV, one-page summary of research interests, and the names and addresses of three references to: art...@cbl.umces.edu. Please reference: ARS - Wainger in the subject line. Applications should be submitted by November 4, 2011. UMCES is an AA/EOE/ADA employer; women and minorities are encouraged to apply. -- Catherine M. Febria, Ph.D. PostDoctoral Research Associate University of Maryland, College Park & Chesapeake Biological Laboratory - University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science email: feb...@umces.edu phone: (410) 326-7414 web: http://cbl.umces.edu/~febria
