Postdoctoral Position Decomposition Processes in Drylands New Mexico State University Department of Biology (job #2008012033)
We invite applications for a postdoctoral position using stable isotope analyses to explore controls over litter decomposition in arid and semi-arid ecosystems. The project aims to improve understanding of mechanisms driving decomposition in drylands, thereby providing critical information on the controls over C sequestration and cycling. Isotopic methods will be used to partition biotic and abiotic drivers of decomposition, and these methods will be used to test the relative importance of biotic and abiotic drivers in field settings. The position is funded through a cooperative program between New Mexico State University and Los Alamos National Laboratory. The position will be based primarily at NMSU, but will include work at LANL. Funding for travel and housing at LANL are available. Opportunities will exist to establish additional collaborations on related projects. Field opportunities include work at the Jornada Basin LTER (jornada-www.nmsu.edu) in the Chihuahuan Desert and the Santa Rita Experimental Range (ag.arizona.edu/srer) in the Sonoran Desert. Starting date is negotiable, but a start date by February 2009 is preferred. Up to two years of funding are available pending satisfactory progress during the first year. Qualifications: PhD in ecology, biogeochemistry, soil science, atmospheric sciences, or a related field. Experience with stable isotope analyses and/or decomposition studies is preferred. Benefits Offered: Group medical and hospital insurance, group life insurance, long-term disability insurance, state educational retirement, workers' compensation, sick leave, annual leave and unemployment compensation. To apply, submit a formal letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and three professional references with names, titles, addresses, daytime phone numbers, and email addresses to: Dr. Heather Throop, Biology Department, MSC 3AF, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces NM 88003 or as e-mail attachments to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Review of applications begins November 15; the position is open until filled For more information please contact: Dr. Heather Throop, NMSU Department of Biology, [EMAIL PROTECTED], 575-646-5970 Dr. Thom Rahn, LANL, [EMAIL PROTECTED] Dr. Curtis Monger, NMSU Department of Plant & Environmental Science, [EMAIL PROTECTED] NMSU IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER. Offer of employment is contingent upon verification of individual's eligibility for employment in the United States. All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent on the University's verification of credentials and other information required by Federal Law, State Law, and NMSU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a criminal history check.
