Postdoctoral Position Wind Dynamics and Seed Dispersal in Fragmented Landscapes
A postdoctoral position funded by the National Science Foundation is available in the research group of Ellen Damschen at Washington University in St. Louis (see lab webpage for more details: http://biology4.wustl.edu/faculty/damschen). In collaboration with Damschen, Ran Nathan (Hebrew University of Jerusalem), Gaby Katul (Duke University), Ana Trakhtenbrot (Hebrew University of Jerusalem), and The Corridor Research Group (www.conservationcorridor.org), the successful candidate will conduct experimental research to determine how landscape connectivity and heterogeneity affect the movement of wind-dispersed seeds within a novel large-scale experiment near Aiken, South Carolina (publications from this landscape can be found at www.conservationcorridor.org). This research requires quantitative knowledge or the willingness to learn about wind dynamics and the physical movement of seeds. Applicants with transferable skills in fluid dynamics (e.g., from marine or freshwater systems) are encouraged to apply. The work also has direct conservation relevance for the consequences of habitat fragmentation, reserve design, and corridors. Damschens growing research group currently includes one postdoc (Lars Brudvig), one graduate student (Melissa Simon), and one research technician (Elizabeth Long). Our research focuses on the role of spatial factors in determining plant community composition and diversity and involves collaboration with other faculty at Washington University (www.biology.wustl.edu/faculty) and The Corridor Research Group (www.conservationcorridor.org). Our lab uses both experiments and observational studies to provide tests of ecological theory that may also have applied conservation relevance. Funding for salary and research expenses is available for one year with the possibility of extension. The preferred start date is September 1, 2007, but this is flexible. The primary location of the postdoc will be determined together with Damschen, but substantial time will need to be spent at the field site near Aiken, SC to conduct the experimental portions of the work. Applicants must have relevant Ph.D. experience fluid dynamics or ecology. In addition, the successful applicant will work collaboratively to obtain additional funding. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, however, candidates are encouraged to send an email indicating interest in the position as soon as possible. Women and Minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. Washington University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. To apply, e-mail a research statement that includes relevant experience for understanding wind dynamics and conducting dispersal experiments, a curriculum vitae, relevant publications, and names of three references to: Ellen Damschen Department of Biology, Washington University 1 Brookings Drive Campus Box 1137 St. Louis, MO 63130 E-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
