A Graduate Research Assistantship is available in the Department of Ecosystem & Conservation Sciences focusing on the carbon (C) vulnerability and bioenergy potential of beetle kill wood in forests of Western North America. Bark beetle outbreaks have devastated forest resources across western North America leaving massive amounts of C in the biomass of standing dead trees. We are seeking a creative and curious PhD student to assess how much C has accumulated in standing dead biomass of North American forests, the vulnerability of this C to re-entering the atmosphere as CO2, and the potential for using this biomass to produce energy. The prospective student will collaborate with scientists from the University of Montana, Missoula, MT and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO. Formal appointments will begin in the fall of 2013, but preference will be given to candidates who can begin research in the summer of 2013. For more information please contact Ashley Ballantyne ([email protected]). To apply, please send: 1) a letter, including scientific interests, professional goals and prior research experience; 2) a current resume or CV; and 3) contact information of three potential references. Applications received by April 30, 2013 will be given preference.
