Spatial simulation of habitat supply for the Bathurst caribou herd, Northwest
Territories, under fire, human landuse and climate change.
An NSERC funded graduate position in wildlife habitat modelling is available in
the Département des sciences du bois et de la forêt, Université Laval. Working
with a diverse team of field ecologists, modellers, government scientists and
students, the applicant will "integrate field-based research on caribou
ecology, fire dynamics, and human use patterns within a spatial dynamic
(landscape) model designed to understand and forecast the long-term
implications of climate change for the distribution of barren-ground caribou on
the Bathurst herd's winter range." For an example of one modelling framework
that could be adapted to this project, see Leroux et al. 2007. Accounting for
system dynamics in reserve design. Ecological Applications 17(7):1954-1966.
The project is best suited to a PhD student, although exceptional MSc
applicants will be considered. The successful applicant will need to acquire
skills in programming environments like C, Visual Basic or SELES; thus,
candidates with simulation modelling experience will be at significant
advantage. Otherwise, the main qualifications for this position are strong
quantitative skills and an interest in applied ecology or boreal conservation,
independent of disciplinary background. A working knowldege of GIS would also
be an asset, although technical support will be available. The applicant will
have the opportunity to travel to Yellowknife and points north for meetings and
site visits once or twice a year, although no significant field work is
contemplated. Holders of NSERC PGS or other scholarships are obviously
encouraged to apply. Note that although the language of instruction at
Université Laval is French, one's thesis may be written in English. The
position must commence no later than September 2008. Applicants should submit
by email a short statement of interest, a current CV, and the names of three
references. To apply, or for further information, contact the undersigned:
Steve Cumming
Chaire de Recherche du Canada,
Modélisation des écosystèmes boréaux
Département des sciences du bois et de la forêt
Université Laval
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
