GRADUATE STUDY IN SILVICULTURE/APPLIED FOREST ECOLOGY DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCE ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT, OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY
The Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, Oklahoma State University is seeking qualified individuals to work on a research project in Silviculture or Applied Forest Ecology. Research will focus on the biological mechanisms that drive the growth and productivity of forest stands. The position will be filled at the Ph.D. (preferred) or M.S. level. RESEARCH AREA: Understanding the mechanisms related to the growth and productivity of forest stands is important to efficiently manage forests for traditional commodities, i.e., wood and fiber, but also for nontraditional commodities and ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, water quality and yield, biofuel feedstocks, wildlife habitat, and aesthetic quality. The successful candidate will undertake studies at the tree or stand level. Flexibility exists in developing specific projects, but potential research directions may entail the effects of silvicultural treatments on stand biology, canopy architecture, effects of fire on natural regeneration, establishment and physiology of plants species important for wildlife habitat, and invasive species. Given the rainfall gradient in Oklahoma, from >50 in the southeastern corner to <20 in the panhandle, Oklahoma comprises a wide range of forest and plant communities that include commercial loblolly pine forests, shortleaf pine savannas, oak-hickory forests, cross-timbers (post oak- blackjack oak dominated forests), and prairie-shrub communities. The student(s) will do coursework at the Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK. STIPEND: A graduate research assistantship is available of $17,500 for Ph.D. or $15,500 for M.S. annually for a half-time appointment. Benefits include tuition waiver and student health insurance (for student only, family coverage available for an additional fee). TENTATIVE STARTING DATE: July 1, 2008 DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: B.S. and/or M.S. in forestry, plant biology, or related degree. If applicable, a minimum grade point average of 3.00 (A = 4.00) and acceptable GRE scores are required. APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Interested individuals should contact: Dr. Rodney Will 008C Agriculture Hall Stillwater, OK 74078 405-744-5444 [EMAIL PROTECTED]
