Graduate Research Assistantship Announcement Available positions: 1 MS (University of Missouri) and 1 PhD (Clemson University)
“Modeling fire-induced tree mortality for eastern hardwood forests” A collaborative research project has been initiated to improve our understanding of tree mortality in response to fire in eastern hardwood forests. The project brings together 12 scientists from the USDA Forest Service, Clemson University, the University of Missouri, and the University of Kentucky and will utilize datasets from studies conducted in six states (AL, KY, MO, NC, OH, and WV). This project will compile one of the largest comprehensive datasets to explore tree mortality in response to fire, using data associated with both experimental and operational burning. In addition, bark thickness data will be collected across size classes for common species throughout the eastern US to understand differences in bark growth patterns among species and their implication to forest composition under historical fire regimes. Bark thickness and tree mortality models resulting from this work will be used to improve the First Order Fire Effects Model for application in eastern hardwood forests. A Doctoral GRA will be located at Clemson University in Clemson, SC. Duties of this position will include compiling, organizing, and analyzing data from the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program, data from several experimental studies using prescribed burning in eastern hardwood forests, and data on bark thickness collected during this project. Expected deliverables include at least three peer-reviewed publications and an acceptable dissertation, as well as the successful completion of the requirements of the degree. We expect the dissertation research will make a significant contribution in understanding forest species composition under surface fire regimes in eastern hardwood forests. Competitive candidates for this position will have an M.S. degree in forestry, ecology, or a closely related discipline, proficiency in written and oral communication, strong GRE scores and TOEFL scores (if applicable), and evidence of scholastic success. Preference will be given to applicants who are self-motivated and enthusiastic about conducting field-based research. The position will be based in Clemson, SC, with field work throughout forests of the eastern US. The position is available to begin in August 2016. A Master of Science GRA will be located at University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. Duties of this position will include compiling, organizing, and analyzing datasets from several experimental studies using prescribed burning in eastern hardwood forests. The candidate will work closely with the PhD student to collect data on bark thickness across size classes for common species throughout the region. Expected deliverables include at least one peer-reviewed publication and an acceptable thesis, as well as the successful completion of the requirements of the degree. Competitive candidates for this position will have a B.S. degree in forestry or a closely related discipline, proficiency in written and oral communication, strong GRE scores and TOEFL scores (if applicable), and evidence of scholastic success. Preference will be given to applicants who are self-motivated and enthusiastic about conducting field-based research. The position will be based in Columbia, MO, with field work throughout forests of the eastern US. The position is available to begin in August 2016. Each successful candidate will receive tuition support and a competitive stipend. The candidates will work together with a team of fire scientists throughout the eastern US. To apply, please send the following materials to the project PIs listed below: 1) personal statement of career goals 2) resume or curriculum vitae 3) transcripts 4) GRE scores and TOEFL score (if applicable) 5) contact information for three references Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a candidate is selected. PhD position: Dr. Geoff Wang Professor Clemson University Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation 226 Lehotsky Hall Clemson, SC 29634 Email: gw...@clemson.edu MS position: Dr. Benjamin Knapp Assistant Professor Department of Forestry University of Missouri 203S Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building Columbia MO 65211 Email: kna...@missouri.edu
