Graduate research (M.S.) opportunity at the University of Alaska Fairbanks studying the effects of an invasive tree on stream-riparian interactions.
We are seeking to fill a Masters-level teaching assistant position to study the ecological effects of an invasive riparian tree species on elements of stream-riparian function. European birdcherry, a small ornamental tree, has been widely planted in urban areas of Alaska, and has spread aggressively along streams in the Anchorage municipality. The successful candidate will develop a project that could include, but would not necessarily be limited to, 1) mapping birdcherry distribution along streams, 2) contrasting the aquatic and terrestrial invertebrate communities associated with birdcherry-dominated forest versus native vegetation, 3) understanding if birdcherry leaf litter decomposition in streams differs from that of native plants, 4) investigating terrestrial invertebrate prey subsidies to stream salmonids from birdcherry, and 5) modeling the future spread and ecological effects of birdcherry. This project will be a highly collaborative research effort among the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the Municipality of Anchorage, the Anchorage Parks Foundation, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the US Forest Service. Strong academic training, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, field experience and competence, and ability to work in team and individual settings are essential. The studentâs program will be based at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and fieldwork take place within the municipality of Anchorage, 350 miles south of campus. The successful candidate will be on campus during most of the school year (Sept-April), and work out of Anchorage during the field season (May-Aug). The successful candidate will have the option of applying to and obtaining their degrees in either Fisheries or Biology. Stipend will be $27,526 to $30,487 up to three years, with health benefits and tuition covered. Fieldwork, lab costs, and work-related travel are covered by the grant. To learn more about the position or project, contact Mark Wipfli ( [EMAIL PROTECTED]) or Tricia Wurtz ([EMAIL PROTECTED]). To begin the application process, submit (preferably by email) a cover letter that includes a brief review of your research experience, interests and goals (2 page max), resume, transcripts, GRE scores, and three letters of reference to: Dr. Mark S. Wipfli Institute of Arctic Biology 209 Irving I Bldg University of Alaska Fairbanks Fairbanks, AK 99775 [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.iab.uaf.edu/~mark_wipfli/ To learn more about graduate studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, visit www.uaf.edu/gradsch. Positions are open until filled. Successful applicants may begin work as early as spring term, 2008.
