Graduate Assistantship in Arctic Plant Physiological Ecology. A M.S. or Ph.D. Graduate Assistantship is available in the Department of Biological Sciences to work on a large interdisciplinary project at Toolik Lake Arctic Research Station (www.uaf.edu/toolik/). The student's research interests should focus on plant ecophysiology, ecosystem physiology, or plant ecology. The project will focus on developing a comprehensive understanding of winter physiological processes for two tundra ecosystems. The student will have the opportunity to interact with scientists from the University of Alabama, Florida International University, and the Arctic LTER. A general knowledge of LI-COR photosynthetic equipment and Campbell Scientific equipment is a plus.
Rationale for this study: Inverse modeling studies of atmospheric [CO2] and 13CO2 have identified northern latitudes as regions that are sequestering CO2 derived from anthropogenic activities. However, the status of these ecosystems as a global sink of C in the future hinges upon the physiological responses of ecosystem components to changes in climate. There is overwhelming evidence for rapid climate change in the Arctic. These changes include the physical environment, carbon balance, plant community structure. Furthermore, warming in the high latitudes is predicted to predominantly occur in the winter, and climate data support that prediction. However, the vast majority of research on tundra vegetation has focused on physiological processes during the short 2-3 month growing season, with only a handful of studies of physiological processes during the 9-10 month cold season. Although the rates of these processes are low, summed over the long cold season they are extremely important. A comprehensive understanding of cold-season physiological processes of tundra vegetation is critically needed given the large potential for further climate changes in the Arctic. This is a fully funded assistantship that includes: stipend, health insurance, travel and living accommodations at Toolik Lake. Interested students should send a copy of their CV, statement of research interest, and unofficial copy of transcripts to Dr. Gregory Starr or contact Dr. Starr for more details ([email protected] or 205-348-0556).
