A Graduate Assistantship is available in the Department of Watershed Sciences, Utah State University, for a field study and ecological modeling of occurrence and spread of invasive plants in riparian wetlands. The goals of the project will be: (1) to evaluate factors that may explain the current distribution of invasives, and (2) to develop a framework for predicting future occurrence. The modeling will utilize a large data set of riparian vegetation from the Upper Columbia River Basin (WA, OR, ID, MT, NV) collected as part of the U.S. Forest Services Effectiveness Monitoring Program (PIBO EMP) for streams and riparian areas. Field studies will be used to verify model predictions or collect additional background data. Qualified applicants will have an undergraduate degree in biology, ecology, plant science, or similar field, and an interest in conducting riparian wetland field studies and developing statistical and ecological computer modeling skills. The Maters position is funded for 2.5 years starting January or August 2009 and includes an annual stipend of $16,000, coverage of tuition and fees, and health insurance. Students will be strongly encouraged to spend their first summer as part of the vegetation sampling crew for the PIBO EMP project.
This project is a collaborative effort with Dr. Karin Kettenring (wetland plant ecologist, Department of Watershed Sciences, Utah State University), Dr. Brett Roper (National Aquatic Monitoring Program Leader U.S. Forest Service), and Dr. Chuck Hawkins (Western Center for Monitoring and Assessment of Freshwater Ecosystems). Interested applicants should send a letter of interest (previous accomplishments, research experience and interests, and how this project fits into future career goals), a resume or C.V., transcripts, GRE scores, and contact information for three references to Karin Kettenring at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Position will remain open until filled. Utah State University is located in Logan, 90 miles northeast of Salt Lake City, in beautiful Cache Valley. Opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, and camping cannot be beat. Karin M. Kettenring Assistant Professor, Wetland Ecology Department of Watershed Sciences Utah State University [EMAIL PROTECTED] 435.797.2546 www.cnr.usu.edu/htm/facstaff/Kettenring
