A graduate research assistant position at either the MS or Ph.D. level is available starting May 2009 with Dr. Sophan Chhin (www.msu.edu/~chhin) in the Department of Forestry (www.for.msu.edu) at Michigan State University (MSU). Research will involve examining the effect of silvicultural management practices (e.g., thinning) on interannual variation in physical (e.g., ring width, density) and chemical (e.g., cellulose and lignin content) wood properties. The project will incorporate many methodological techniques from the discipline of tree ring research (dendrochronology). The successful applicant is also expected to explore possible relationships between wood properties and past climate which may serve as the basis for future projections of wood parameters under different climate change scenarios. This research will have implications for optimizing silvicultural practices for improved wood quality, and contribute to the sustainable production of bioenergy and biofuels in the context of climate change. MSU is a land grant institution and there are many opportunities to conduct research at the network of MSU experiment stations throughout Michigan.
Applicants interested in a MS level position should preferably have a BS in forestry, biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or a similarly related natural resource field. Applicants interested in a Ph.D. level position should preferably have a MS as well as some publishing experience. Experience conducting tree ring analyses is desirable. The position includes a tuition waiver and health benefits, and a competitive stipend (MS: ~$19,000/year; Ph.D.: ~$21,000/year) for 3 years that is renewable annually based on satisfactory performance. Please submit application package that includes a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts, GRE scores, and contact information of three references to (electronic applications are preferred): Dr. Sophan Chhin Assistant Professor, Silviculture and Forest Ecosystem Productivity Department of Forestry Michigan State University 126 Natural Resources Building East Lansing, MI 48824-1222 Tel: (517) 353-7251 Fax: (517) 432-1143 E-mail: ch...@msu.edu Applications will be considered immediately and continue until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration please submit material by February 20, 2009. MSU is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
