Ph.D. Assistantship (Forestry): A graduate research assistant position at the Ph.D. level is available starting January 2009 with Dr. Sophan Chhin in the Department of Forestry at Michigan State University (MSU). The general objective of the project supporting this assistantship is to examine the effect of silvicultural management practices on interannual variation in physical (e.g., ring width, density) and chemical (e.g., cellulose and lignin content) wood properties. The project will incorporate many methodological techniques from the discipline of tree ring research (dendrochronology). The successful applicant is also expected to explore possible relationships between wood properties and past climate which may serve as the basis for future projections of wood parameters under different climate change scenarios. This research will have implications for optimizing silvicultural practices for improved wood quality, and contribute to the sustainable production of bioenergy and biofuels in the context of climate change. MSU is a land grant institution and there are many opportunities to conduct research at the network of MSU experiment stations throughout Michigan.
Applicants should preferably have a BS and MS in forestry, biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or a similarly related natural resource field. A past record of least one journal publication, and experience conducting tree ring analyses is desirable. The position includes a tuition waiver and health benefits, and a competitive stipend (~$21,000/year) for 3 years that is renewable annually based on satisfactory performance. Please submit application package that includes a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts, GRE scores, and contact information of three references to (electronic applications are preferred): Dr. Sophan Chhin Assistant Professor, Silviculture and Forest Ecosystem Productivity Department of Forestry Michigan State University 126 Natural Resources Building East Lansing, MI 48824-1222 Tel: (517) 353-7251 Fax: (517) 432-1143 E-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Applications will be considered immediately and continue until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration please submit material by November 10, 2008. MSU is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
