US Forest Service Research Participation Program - Southern Research Station
U.S. Department of Agriculture Athens, GA FS-2014-RD-200 Updated Project Description: A postdoctoral research participation project is available with the Southern Research Station - Center for Forest Disturbance Science located in Athens, GA. Global change is accelerating and there is considerable uncertainty surrounding effects on ecosystem processes. Predicting the impact of these changes will require accurate models of ecosystem functions and these models will be essential for guiding land management. The accuracy of these models depends on both the quality and proper scaling of data. This project will synthesize long-term data on ecosystem carbon, nitrogen, and climate in two southeastern pine forests for use in evaluating multiple landscape ecosystem models. In addition to assessing data quality assurance and quality control, we will investigate whether these data can be scaled appropriately for model use and detect issues associated with scale. The applicant will develop skills related to spatial and temporal scaling of data and explore the potential influences that scaling may have on inter-model comparison. This is an opportunity to work alongside several federal, state, and private agencies that work cohesively to provide quality data and analysis on ecosystem nutrient cycling. In addition, the applicant will work closely with a federal research assistant that will handle data synthesis, database management, web-based data exchange, as well as metadata development. There are opportunities for gaining field work experience alongside the scientists and collaborators associated with the project. Ideal Candidates will: Have a Ph.D. in a relevant field of research, which may include, forestry, forest ecology, ecosystem ecology, or equivalent environmental field. Have a strong background (course work, thesis/dissertation) in ecosystem ecology, landscape ecology, ecosystem or environmental science, exceptional data management skills, and moderate to advanced GIS skills. The applicant must have experience or background in ecological or environmental modeling. Demonstrate their ability to work independently and in groups. Additional Preferred Skills: Experience or background in: ecophysiology, climate science, fire ecology, fire or forest management, spatial analysis or spatial statistics. Familiarity with one or more programming languages, for example, R, python, or C++. Database management, especially related to web-based data exchange is desirable. Details: Stipend Amount: $66,000/year with annual increase Relocation Allowance: $1,000 Length of Appointment: Two years Desired Start Date: July 1st, 2014 Number of Positions: 1 Health Insurance Included Deadline: Until position is filled Additional Information: The program is open to all qualified individuals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, or status as a Vietnam era or disabled veteran. The U.S. Forest Service Postgraduate Research Participation Program is administered by Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education. How to Apply: Additional information and application materials: http://www.orau.gov/usfs_rpp/apply/application.html Please send the following materials to usforestserv...@orise.orau.gov Application Form CV/Resume Letter of interest Three contact references with name and email Letters of recommendation are accepted but not required
