I am seeking an MS student to work on research related to tidal marsh plant and salinity dynamics along the lower Savannah River. Plans for the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project (SHEP) include deepening the primary shipping channel at the Savannah port, along with flow diversions at several points along the river. Construction associated with SHEP will begin in 2015. We are monitoring aboveground salinity, belowground salinity, and plant responses at 15 freshwater and oligohaline areas within the estuary, situated primarily on Savannah National Wildlife Refuge property.
The selected student will conduct semi-annual clip plot sampling and sample analysis for community composition in conjunction with automated sensor data recording of water level and salinity. The selected student will develop an independent research project to explore ecological relationships pertinent to this monitoring. Prospective students should have a BS degree in natural resources from an accredited university and maintain a valid driverÂ’s license. I expect the selected student to have, and develop further, the ability to think critically, communicate proficiently with a scientific audience, be able to use common computer programs (e.g., Microsoft Office suite), and most importantly have a passion for wetland ecology. Field duties will require extensive use of small (16 foot) outboard motorboats, making the ability to swim important for safety reasons. Conditions in the field are very hot and humid in summer months when samples are collected. Sampling involves traversing floatant and solid ground marshes on-foot for extensive distances while carrying several bags of marsh plants. Fieldwork on this project is a very energy intensive endeavor, requiring the perspective student to have and maintain a high level of physical fitness; this component of the opportunity should not be underestimated or taken lightly. Proper training will be provided for safe motorboat operation, marsh plant identification, and use of appropriate tools (e.g., handheld GPS, statistical techniques), but appropriate physical fitness will be expected at the time of hire. Stipend will be $16,500 annual. Two years of tuition and project travel will also be covered by the project, though the perspective student will be required to pay Clemson University fees imposed each semester and summer, and university parking fees. Interested applicants should send a letter of interest, CV, and unofficial transcripts to Dr. Jamie Duberstein at [email protected]. Please also include three written letters of reference that address the applicantÂ’s ability to work independently and pro-actively, and demonstrated work ethic. Review of applicants will begin immediately. Position starts January 2015.
