PhD position in Water Use Dynamics of Bioenergy Crops in the Americas A PhD associate position is available with a large interdisciplinary NSF-PIRE funded research project that will examine the social, economic, and ecological implications of bioenergy development in four countries across the Americas: Argentina (eucalyptus for biodiesel), Brazil (conversion of natural forests to soy, palm, and sugarcane for ethanol and biodiesel), Mexico (jatropha for biodiesel), and the U.S. (conversion of hardwood forests to cellulosic ethanol). The focus of this PhD position will be to quantify plant water use (sap flow techniques), water use efficiency, and rainfall interception of biofuel crops and the reference (native) vegetation at each of the four study sites. As part of this PhD position, there will be substantial opportunities to collaborate with other researchers with diverse backgrounds and expertise to conduct more integrated analysis of the impacts of bioenergy production on coupled water, carbon, and nutrient cycles within each of the study systems, and to assess effects of land use conversion on site water balance and water quality.
The PhD student will be based at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, NH, and will be co- advised by Dr. Heidi Asbjornsen (UNH) and Dr. Tom Pypker (Michigan Technological University). The position will also require travel for extended periods of time to each of the four study sites. Minimum qualifications include a M.S. degree (or comparable demonstrated experience) in ecology, plant ecophysiology, ecohydrology, or a related field. Candidates will require a strong analytical background and an ability to manage large data sets and supervise field assistants. Additionally, the prospective candidate should have demonstrated motivation and strong work habits, the ability to work independently as well as within a research group, and demonstrated ability to produce publications based on individual research. Preferred qualifications include experience with sap flow techniques, hydrometeorological analyses, and/or other field approaches for measuring plant, soil, or water dynamics. Proficiency in Spanish and/or Portuguese is also desirable. Interested candidates should submit a curriculum vitae, statement of interest, transcripts (unofficial versions are acceptable), and the names of three references to Heidi Asbjornsen, [email protected] or Tom Pypker, [email protected]. Review of applications will begin October 30, 2012 and will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is sometime between January and May 2013 (negotiable). Funding is available for a total of four years (one year Teaching Assistantship and three years Research Assistantship). The University of New Hampshire is an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action/equal access employer.
