Two graduate positions in ecology: University of Waterloo Funding is available for two graduate positions in the areas of extinction, invasion and ecosystem engineering.
Position one: Investigation of the role of species modification of the abiotic environment (ecosystem engineering) on population and community dynamics. We are particularly interested in the effects on invasive and endangered species (e.g., Hines emerald dragonfly). Position two: Investigation of the effects of variation in the abiotic environment on invasion and extinction risk. In particular, we would like the applicant to address the effects of autocorrelation in environmental signals (e.g. temperature) using a model invertebrate system. Both research questions can be addressed using either purely theoretical or purely experimental techniques. However, the ideal candidates will combine both approaches to produce powerful conclusions regarding these mechanisms and species dynamics. A background in either ecology or mathematics is required. To be considered, candidates must be eligible for admission to the Biology graduate program at University of Waterloo (http://biology.uwaterloo.ca/graduate). Stipend: Candidates receive financial support through a combination of teaching and research stipend for a total of $19686/annum. Travel funds to attend scientific conferences are available. Location: Waterloo, Ontario. Maclean's reputational university rankings for Canadian universities has consistently ranked UW first in the "Most Innovative" and "Leaders of Tomorrow" sections. The city of Waterloo is part of Canada's Technology Triangle, and hosts companies such as Research in Motion, Maplesoft, Google, Sybase, and McAfee, as well as various thinktanks such as the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, and the Institute for Quantum Computing. It was named Intelligent Community of the Year in 2007. Contact: Dr. Kim Cuddington Department of Biology University of Waterloo Waterloo, Ontario Email: kcuddingATuwaterlooDOT.ca
