A PhD position is available in the Forest and Fire Ecology Lab
(http://forestfire.fwrc.msstate.edu/) at Mississippi State University
(Starkville, MS) to study stand dynamics, fire ecology, and forest
restoration of upland oak and/or pine forests. The student’s research will
examine how changes in forest composition and structure as a consequence of
changing fire regimes and/or herbivory impact regeneration of desired
species and the potential outcomes for forest restoration at a variety of
sites, including Spirit Hill Farm and Holly Springs National Forest in
northern Mississippi and Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest in western
Kentucky. The student will interact with faculty in the Department of
Forestry and Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, private landowners, and
state/federal agency personnel. The student will be appointed as a Graduate
Research Assistant (GRA) in the Department of Forestry. In addition to
developing and executing dissertation research, the student will be expected
to (1) act as a teaching assistant for undergraduate courses in Dendrology
and/or Ecology during several semesters, (2) assist other collaborating
researchers with their projects, and (3) contribute to departmental,
college, and university service. Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in
forestry, ecology, biology, or a related field; preference will be given to
applicants with a MS degree in one of these fields. Prior experience in
fieldwork related to forest ecology, silviculture, and/or wildlife habitat
management is required. Successful candidates must demonstrate an aptitude
for research, strong analytical and oral and written scientific
communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently
and as a team. Applicants must be capable of working long hours outdoors
exposed to harsh weather, biting insects, and thorny vegetation. If
interested, please email to Dr. Heather Alexander
([email protected]) (1) a cover letter discussing interest in
the research, qualifications, and applicable background experience; (2) a
resume/CV; (3) unofficial transcripts; and (4) contact information for three
professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Details on the full application process to the MSU Graduate School can be
found at http://www.grad.msstate.edu/prospective/. Financial support is
available for three years, starting as soon as January 2019, and includes a
stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance. Funding for additional
semesters may be available if needed. Review of applications will begin
immediately and continue until the position is filled.
- [ECOLOG-L] PhD Position Available to Study Stand Dynam... Heather D Alexander
- [ECOLOG-L] PhD Position Available to Study Stand ... Heather D Alexander
