Post-doctoral Research Scientist position with the Landscape Ecology Unit, North Central Research Station, Rhinelander, Wisconsin.
We are seeking an individual with a background in insect and/or forest disturbance ecology and spatial pattern analyses to investigate spatial effects of forest landscape structure on defoliation damage within subboreal forest ecosystems. The scientist will work as part of an interdisciplinary team that includes federal and university cooperators in both the U.S. and Canada with expertise in landscape modeling, remote sensing, molecular techniques, spatial analyses, forest disturbance ecology, and insect population ecology. Primary responsibilities include spatial analyses of insect disturbances detected via remote sensing, and simulating interactions between forest succession, insect defoliation, and other disturbances (harvest, fire, wind). The position is funded for two years at the GS-11 level ($51,972) and includes full benefits and technician support. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS POSITION CAN START AS EARLY AS MARCH 2006, AND WE WISH TO FILL THIS POSITION AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. QUALIFICATIONS: - A Ph.D. in landscape ecology, entomology, forest ecology or other closely related field - Ability to develop and implement a novel research project investigating the spatial ecology of forest defoliator disturbance. - Experience with GIS and spatial statistics is required - Modeling experience is also desirable - Good written and verbal communication skills - Ability to work both independently and in a team setting also required TO APPLY: Send a letter of interest, CV, graduate school transcripts (unofficial copy is sufficient), and contact information for two or more references to: Dr. Brian Sturtevant: E-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Mail: U.S. Forest Service, Forestry Sciences Lab, 5985 Hwy K, Rhinelander, WI 54501 Phone: 715-362-1105 This position will be filled as soon as possible. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION The Research Environment The mission of the Landscape Ecology Unit is to develop the knowledge and technology for a multi-scale approach to managing natural resources for diverse human needs. A primary focus of the Unit is improving our understanding of the ecological consequences of changes in landscape composition and structure created through resource management and other land uses, natural disturbances, and their interaction with the physical environment. We take a comprehensive, multi-scale approach for assessing commodity production, recreational opportunities, biodiversity conservation, and other aspects of resource management and sustainability. The Rhinelander Community Rhinelander is located in the heart of the scenic Northwoods in north central Wisconsin. Rhinelander has a large number of lakes nearby, and the area is renown for its fishing, boating, hiking, hunting, golfing, skiing (cross country and downhill) and snowmobiling opportunities. There are many public Forests nearby, including the 1.5 million acre Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The area is a popular scenic and recreation destination, and a rapidly growing population indicates that the area is a desirable place to live. The population in the Rhinelander area is approximately 20,000, and residents enjoy a relaxed and relatively crime-free lifestyle. Rhinelander has excellent schools (including a community college) and medical facilities, yet the cost of living is reasonable. Rhinelander is served by 2 commuter airlines with daily connections to Minneapolis and Milwaukee. Additional information can be found on area Chamber of Commerce Web sites: www.rhinelanderchamber.com and www.oneidacounty-wi.org. The USDA Forest Service is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates will be considered without discrimination for any non-merit reason such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, politics, marital status, physical handicap, age or membership in any employee organization.
