Spatial simulation of carbon dynamics in Québec boreal forest under climate change
We are seeking a PhD student, interested in statistical ecology and spatial simulation, to help us to parameterise and implement predictive spatial models of the carbon budgets of boreal forests. The amount of carbon sequestered in these forests at any given time is a complex function of the dynamics of below ground carbon pools, inputs from trees and other plants and disturbances by wildfire; all these processes are sensitive to variation in climate. Thus, a suitable modelling framework must represent all these processes. The sort of approach we have in mind is presented here: http://berl.ca/documents/Lignum2002.pdf We offer a 3yr PhD scholarship at $20,000/yr, tenable at the Département des sciences du bois et de la forêt, Université Laval, Québec City, under the supervision of Steve Cumming and Sylvie Gauthier (Canadian Forest Service). The position will commence no later than September 2009. The successful applicant will work closely with an interdisplinary team of soil scientists, forest ecologists and modellers, and will be part of an active and growing "meta-lab" on spatial simulation, statistical ecology and boreal conservation biology. The main qualifications for this position are strong quantitative skills and an interest in applied ecology and simulation modelling, independent of disciplinary background. Some programming experience (e.g. in C or Visual Basic) would be a major asset, although some modelling courses are available in the lab. The language of instruction at Université Laval is French, but one's thesis may be written in English. This position will thus be of particular interest to students wanting to perfect their French language skills in a francophone cultural environment. Applicants should submit by email a short statement of interest, a current CV, and the names of three references. 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] Steve Cumming Canada Research Chair in Boreal Ecosystems Modelling Sciences du bois et de la forêt Université Laval (418) 656-2131 poste 2593
