Title: Graduate (PhD) Assistantship: Influence of recolonizing wolves on deer herbivory and plant communities in Washington Agency: School of Environmental and Forest Sciences (SEFS), College of the Environment, University of Washington Location: Seattle, WA
Job Description: This project will explore the indirect effects of gray wolf (Canis lupus) recolonization on plant communities in Washington, as transmitted by changes to mule (Odocoileus hemionus) and white-tailed (O. virginianus) deer herbivory. Fieldwork will entail establishment and monitoring of paired herbivory exclosures and controls over the course of three years across four study areas two influenced by wolf packs and two that have yet to be colonized by wolves to both characterize baseline patterns of herbivory by the two deer species and test for shifts in these patterns in response to the threat of wolf predation. The student will benefit from full financial support, existing research infrastructure, and collaboration with another UW graduate student and agency biologists as part of an ongoing, NSF-supported study of the ecological impacts of wolves in Washington. Qualifications: Applicants should be highly motivated with a strong work ethic, well-developed oral and written communication skills, and an excellent academic background. Academic preparation must include a MS in plant sciences, wildlife biology, ecology, or related fields with evidence of peer-reviewed publication and considerable field experience working in remote areas. Furthermore, preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated interest and experience in studying plants and plant-herbivore interactions in the field. Applicants should create a single document (e.g., a pdf) that includes a brief letter of interest (1-2 pages), CV, unofficial transcripts, unofficial general GRE scores, and a list of 3 references and their contact information. The name of the file should contain the first and last name of the applicant. This file should be sent to Dr. Aaron Wirsing ([email protected]) via e-mail with Deer herbivory in the subject line. Screening of applications will begin on the 15th of January, 2014, at which time we will contact references for those on the short list. The student will begin in the autumn of 2014. Salary: Stipend, fringe benefits, tuition Last Date to Apply: January 15, 2014 Contact: Dr. Aaron Wirsing E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 206-543-1585 Faculty Website: http://predatorecology.com
