Im looking for a motivated undergraduate or recent graduate to assist with ecology fieldwork in Panama this summer (approx. length May 1-31, maybe longer). I study plant community ecology and competition between lianas and trees. The term liana refers to a life form classification for vines that have woody secondary growth similar to trees. Lianas exist in over 130 different plant families and are particularly abundant in the tropics. Thats why we do this research in Panama!
Lianas act as structural parasites on trees. They can quickly climb tree boles in order to reach the high light environment of the canopy without investing very much energy in structural support. The weight of lianas on these trees may increase tree fall gaps and significantly affect tropical forest dynamics. Furthermore, lianas are increasing in overall abundance. This may be a result of large-scale climate change dynamics, including increased drought related to the El Nino Southern Oscillation as well as increased atmospheric CO2 concentrations. I am attempting to investigate whether or not lianas actually compete differently than trees. Will increased liana abundance actually have significant effects on community level dynamics? In the field, we will be censusing field plots by identifying saplings and lianas and permanently tagging them for future measurement. The work also involves greenhouse work growing, tending to, and planting seedlings. The fieldwork is pretty grueling and can be quite redundant so you need to be prepared to work hard in hot/wet tropical conditions with lots of bugs! However, you get to work in a tropical forest all day, stay at a field station in the middle of the Panama Canal (its beautiful!), and take a boat to work everyday. This is a volunteer position and you will be responsible for travel costs to get to Panama! If this type of field experience sounds like fun to you please contact me with a cover letter outlining your interests and qualifications, dates of availability and contact information. Also include, names, phone numbers, and email addresses of two references, your resume, and most recent academic transcript. Thanks!
