Two PhD positions are available in the Department of Renewable Resources at the University of Alberta to study Climate-related tree dieback in western Canada.
In North America, Europe and elsewhere, many forests may be at increasing risk of climate-related dieback. Climate change-related forest dieback is an emerging topic with global significance. Two PhD students will study potential causes of climate-induced tree mortality, using forests in western Canada as a model system. The project aims at studying how drought episodes promote dieback via changes in xylem (the water-conducting pipes of a tree) structure and function. Most of the research will be done in the laboratory, but the project will also involve some limited field work. There will be collaboration with a research group in Germany, which studies this topic in European forests. Students will spend several months with the collaborating team in Munich as part of the program. Students will work under the supervision of Drs. Uwe Hacke and Vic Lieffers (position #1) and Dr. Hacke (position #2). Candidates interested in plant physiology, ecology, forestry and/or climate change are encouraged to apply. Selection of students will be based on academic achievements, reference letters and if applicable previous research experience. Strong verbal, written, and analytical skills are essential. Excellent English skills are important. The applicant must meet the entrance requirement for the University of Alberta, Department of Renewable Resources (http://www.rr.ualberta.ca/GraduateProgram/ApplyingandAdmission.aspx). Interested candidates should e-mail their transcripts (scanned would be fine for the unofficial application), CV, a letter describing their research experience and interests (2-page limit), recent TOEFL scores (if appropriate), and the names and contact information of three references to Dr. Uwe Hacke ([email protected]) and/or Dr. Vic Lieffers ([email protected]).
