The Stella Lab at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF, Syracuse) seeks a well-qualified PhD student to join a project investigating drought and its impact on riparian vegetation in the Southwestern USA (Arizona and California). The multi-university project team will develop a range of water stress indicators using field-based studies, remote sensing and modeling to assess forest health at multiple scales. Funded by the US Department of Defense’s Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP), the project focuses on the sustainability and management of riparian ecosystems in drought-prone landscapes. Research methods will include field sampling to inventory riparian forest structure and health, collecting and analyzing tree rings for growth trends and annual water use efficiency using carbon isotopes, and assessing critical thresholds for riparian forest decline.
We welcome applications from motivated, curious students with ecological research experience. Ideal candidates will have a MS in ecology, environmental science, or a related field; a strong quantitative background; the ability to work in remote field settings; and interest in riparian forest ecology and tree ecophysiology in dryland regions. Applicants with strong statistical, GIS and writing skills are desired. The position starts in late Spring or Summer 2019, is funded for a minimum of three years, and provides a competitive stipend, tuition and benefits. Applications should include a brief statement of interest and experience, CV, transcripts, GRE scores, English proficiency scores (if applicable), and a research writing sample, if available. Send email inquiries to John Stella, SUNY-ESF; ste...@esf.edu Other project collaborators: Michael Singer (UCSB and Cardiff Univ.), Kelly Caylor (UCSB), Dar Roberts, (UCSB). For more information: http://www.esf.edu/fnrm/stella/default.htm
