MS Graduate Assistantship - Agricultural Ecology at the University of Maryland
Seeking one motivated MS student to start January 2015 or September 2015 in the area of agricultural ecology in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at the University of Maryland. The candidate will explore the potential environmental effects of increased fertilizer application rates in sub-Saharan Africa on nutrient cycling in agricultural systems. While agricultural yields have increased dramatically across the developed and developing world, sub-Saharan Africa has seen no major increases in production with yields per capita stagnating or even declining over the past 50 years. In response, the African Green Revolution promotes the use of improved seeds and mineral fertilizer. While there is clear evidence that this will increase yields, potential environmental impacts are unknown due to the fact that these changes are occurring on highly degraded soils and that we have practically no data on how they might respond due to a lack of field studies. The candidate will be responsible for helping us better understand how such changes in land management will affect environmental quality. Primary responsibilities will include chemical analysis of water and soil samples, statistical modeling, and thinking big! Applicants should have a foundation in terrestrial ecology, nutrient cycling, and basic statistics. Should be able to work both independently and as a member of a team. Preference will be given to those with field experience dont be afraid to get your hands dirty. Integrity, enthusiasm, and creativity are required. For more information about the project/research opportunities, please contact Dr. Kate Tully at [email protected]. For more information on the graduate program and links to apply, please visit: http://psla.umd.edu/academic-programs/plant-biology-biotechnology-programs/plant-biology- and-biotechnology-graduate.
