A graduate research assistantship (Masters Level) is available in forest soil ecology at the University of Florida. The projects focus is on belowground carbon (C) allocation in loblolly pine, and how variation in C cycling affects soil C cycling. The student will be using a radiocarbon isotopic method, and other techniques, to partition soil CO2 efflux to determine how belowground allocation responds to family level genetic selection and different levels of fertilization. The student will be co-advised by Drs. Eric Jokela and Edward Schuur.
Overview: Bi-monthly field visits will be required to sample for soil CO2 efflux, and thrice yearly visits to estimate the radiocarbon signatures of soil CO2 efflux. Radiocarbon estimates of root and microbial respiration will be made two times over the course of the project. The student will also assist in the collection of aboveground productivity and litterfall estimates, and the installation of root exclusions. The student will be responsible for analyzing data, preparing technical reports, presenting results at national conferences, and developing at least one peer-reviewed publication. Students with a background in forestry, soil science, biology, botany, or environmental science with strong analytical skills are encouraged to apply. Two years of funding (stipend, tuition waver and health insurance) are available for this position with at least one semester of student teaching Starting Date: May 2010 (Application Deadline: April 1, 2010). The student will be part of two larger research groups: The Forest Biology Research Cooperative and the Ecosystem Dynamics Lab at the University of Florida. As a result, she/he will interact closely with colleagues having a wide range of research interests, including forest genetics, silviculture, and boreal and arctic ecology. The University of Florida is located in the north central Florida, within a 2-hour drive of either the Atlantic coast or Gulf of Mexico. The University of Florida has nearly 50,000 students, and as a result, it boasts a diverse set of cultural, intellectual, and recreational opportunities. Application: Please send 1) transcripts and GRE scores (unofficial copies OK for initial inquiry), 2) curriculum vitae, 3) contact information for 3 references, and 4) letter of application which (i) describes your interest in the position, (ii) describes your career goals, and (iii) details your work or educational experience that is most relevant to this position. For more information contact: Dr. Eric Jokela 353 Newins-Ziegler Hall P.O. Box 110410 University of Florida Gainesville, FL 32611-0410 Phone: (352) 846-0890 e-mail: [email protected]
