Position Announcement Postdoctoral Position in Functional Ecology (Plant Functional Traits) Developing Novel Ecosystems that Enhance Carbon Storage, Native Biodiversity, and Human Mobility in Lowland Hawaiian Forests
A postdoctoral research position is available for an individual interested in melding plant functional trait theory with restoration planning. The objectives of the study are to determine appropriate candidate species for tropical lowland wet forest restoration based on their functional traits. Tropical lowland wet forests have been heavily used by humans for centuries and in many places we no longer have undisturbed reference systems that can serve as pristine controls. In Hawaii in particular, lowland wet forests are heavily invaded by widespread non-native trees. Management efforts to return to pre-historic states have not been effective and new methods are required. We propose to develop and evaluate a set of what we call hybrid ecosystems, in which a mix of native and non-native species maintains valuable forest structure and ecosystem services. Utilizing functional trait level information and ecological assembly rules, we propose to design combinations of species that will serve as self-sustaining hybrid ecosystems, balancing tradeoffs between supporting sustainable native biodiversity and human needs for C storage. The position will be based at the USDA Forest Service, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry office in Hilo Hawaii. The successful candidate will work closely with project investigators Dr. Rebecca Ostertag, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Dr. Susan Cordell, USDAFS, PSW-Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, and Dr. Peter Vitousek, Stanford University. In addition the candidate will supervise field technicians, graduate and undergraduate research assistants. Responsibilities will include plant functional trait analysis, and design, implementation and evaluation of field and greenhouse studies related to the research objectives of the project. Development of additional areas of interest that conform with the scope of the research project will be encouraged. Funding is available for 2 years with the possibility of extension. A Ph.D. in Ecology, Plant Biology or equivalent is required. Technical skills desired include: Strong quantitative skills and in particular experience with multivariate statistical models and analysis including indices related to functional diversity; expertise in data management and databases; and an understanding of the theory and measurement of plant functional traits. Good physical stamina for extended hours of field work under hot and sunny (or cool and rainy) conditions is a must. This postdoc position is part of a multi-year Department of Defense, Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program-funded research grant. Additional information and application materials will be forwarded upon request. Review of applications will begin March 31st, 2011 (Expected start date is May 2011). Interested candidates should contact Dr. Susan Cordell, (808-854-2628), scordel...@fs.fed.us or Dr. Rebecca Ostertag, (808-974-7361), oster...@hawaii.edu
