*Graduate Research (RA) position in Fire Ecology available at the University of Idaho*
The University of Idaho seeks a MSc or PhD graduate student in wildfire ecology. The successful candidate will work with Drs. Arjan Meddens and Crystal Kolden to examine the ecological importance of wildfire refugia. The project is fully funded for 2 years under an award from the Joint Fire Science Program. The successful candidate will be housed in the College of Natural Resources and will analyze field and geospatial data to locate and rank the importance of unburned areas within fire perimeters. Areas that do not burn within fire perimeters can act as fire refugia, providing (1) protection from the detrimental effects of the fire, (2) seed sources, and (3) post-fire habitat for plants and animals. This highly relevant research will aim to improve ecosystem resilience to future disturbances across the larger landscape under rapidly changing climate conditions. Requirements: A strong quantitative background, as demonstrated by courses taken, programming skills, and GRE scores, is required. Field experience and a well-rounded educational background in ecology, geography, and fire science is desired. The position will begin in the Summer of 2017. This position has 2 years of Research Assistant funding available with the possibility of more funding on a similar project following the first two years for PhD students. Annual compensation package is competitive and depends upon degree sought (MS or PHD) and experience. If you like to be considered for the position, please send a letter of interest and a CV to Arjan Meddens (amedd...@uidaho.edu).
