I am looking for a M.S. or Ph.D. student to work on a project funded by the USDA National Research Initiative (Biology of Weedy and Invasive Species) to assess the susceptibility to exotic plant invasion of forested reservoir islands in lakes on the Georgia-South Carolina border. These islands were fragmented from continuous forest when rivers were dammed for hydroelectric power. The project will examine the effects of land-use history (logged vs. unlogged prior to impoundment), degree of fragmentation (island size), and degree of isolation (distance from mainland) on the composition and abundance of woody invasive plants relative to native plants on islands and adjacent mainland areas. The influence of edges on vegetation and abiotic factors will also be assessed using a series of plots nested within sites (islands or mainland areas) at different distances from the edge. The work will involve vegetation surveys, field sampling of soil, light, and litter mass, and experimental seed additions at different distances from the edge of islands of varying size, distance from the mainland, and land-use history in these two lakes. Further development of this project by the graduate student by following his/her own interests is expected.
Qualifications: Candidates must have at least a B.A. or B.S. in Biology, Environmental Science, or the equivalent, and ideally a Masters degree (for Ph.D. students). The successful candidate should be highly motivated with strong academic and experiential credentials. Prior field and lab experiences in vegetation and soil nutrient analysis are preferred. Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with undergraduate and high school students is essential to the project. Good writing skills are also necessary. Minimal academic requirements are an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and above and GRE score of 1100 (Verbal + Quantitative) or higher. Salary: Two years of a research assistantship (about $18,000 per year + tuition waiver) are guaranteed. Funding for subsequent years may be covered by a teaching assistantship. This appointment (2-years) may begin August 2007, although funds are available to hire the person as an hourly worker starting in May 2007. Degree program: Once approved by the PI, candidates should apply to the Graduate School of Clemson University in the Department of Biological Sciences. For more details, visit the departments website http://www.clemson.edu/biosci/graduate/. The position is contingent upon acceptance by the Graduate School. To apply: Send an email with a letter detailing your interest in this project and relevant experience/education, your resume, contact information for three references, your undergraduate or graduate GPA, and GRE scores to Dr. Saara J. DeWalt ([EMAIL PROTECTED]). If you have any questions, contact: Saara J. DeWalt Department of Biological Sciences Clemson University 132 Long Hall Clemson, SC 29634 E-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Phone: 864-656-1429 Fax: 864-656-0435 http://www.clemson.edu/biosci/sdewalt/
