Plant Biodiversity MS Student Position, Department of Botany, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY
Responsibilities: The successful applicant will conduct research as part of collaborative efforts of Dr. William Lauenroth (http://www.wklauenroth.net/), Dr. John Bradford (https://profile.usgs.gov/jbradford), and Dr. Kyle Palmquist (http://www.kylepalmquist.org) to examine plant biodiversity patterns and the community assembly processes driving those patterns in big sagebrush plant ecosystems across the western US. Big sagebrush ecosystems cover a large portion of western landscapes and provide important ecosystem services, rangelands, recreation, and habitat for greater sage grouse. The most limiting resource for plant growth in these ecosystems is soil water availability and understanding current and future patterns of soil water is crucial for effective conservation of big sagebrush ecosystems and for the livelihoods of those who depend on them. Despite the importance of big sagebrush ecosystems in the western US, very little work has focused on quantifying plant patterns in the herbaceous layer, where most of the biodiversity is found. Potential focal areas for the MS student include: 1) exploring the geographic patterns of plant biodiversity in big sagebrush plant communities across the western US, 2) examining how soil water availability, along with other environmental drivers (e.g. elevation, soil texture) influences plant biodiversity patterns, and 3) assessing how climate change will impact soil water availability and plant biodiversity patterns in big sagebrush ecosystems in the future. Qualifications: Successful applicants will be self-motivated, able to work effectively independently and in a team setting. An undergraduate degree in biology, ecology, or a related field is preferred. Experience with plant identification, plant community sampling, and statistical analysis are assets. Start date: May 2015 To apply, please email the following documents with the subject header “MS-Biodiversity” to Dr. Lauenroth ([email protected]) or Dr. Palmquist ([email protected]): 1) a cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications, 2) a CV including undergraduate GPA and GRE scores, 3) unofficial copies of transcripts, and 4) names and contact information for two academic references. Applications will be reviewed immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Feel free to contact Dr. Lauenroth or Dr. Palmquist with questions.
