The coastal wetlands of the Gulf of Mexico are important habitat for waterbirds, alligators, and other wetland-dependent wildlife. The ability of these marshes to keep up with sea-level rise is a critical focal area for current research and hinges on the balance between sea level rise, below ground plant production and decomposition, and deep subsidence. Wetland management practices (e.g., fire, drawdowns, herbicides) for waterfowl and other wildlife, affect plant production and decomposition processes and thus affects the ability of the marshes to keep up with sea level rise. We are seeking a Ph.D. student to investigate how coastal wetland management practices influence the ability of coastal marshes to keep up with sea level rise and to identify alternative management practices that can provide benefits to target wildlife while sustaining marshes over the long-term. The student must possess an M.S. degree in biology, plant ecology, wetlands, wildlife or related field. Ideally the student will have experience in wetland ecology and management. Field experience is also a plus. The student will work with several state and federal agencies and will be co-advised by Drs. Sammy King (skin...@lsu.edu;http://www.rnr.lsu.edu/people/king/default.htm) and Andy Nyman (jny...@lsu.edu; http://www.rnr.lsu.edu/people/nyman/). Please send a statement of interest that includes career goals, CV, copies of transcripts, and names and contact information for 3 references to skin...@lsu.edu. Application review will begin on 15 May and will continue until candidate is selected.
