[ECOLOG-L] job opening: Assistant Professor of Silviculture, University of Florida
Title: Assistant Professor of Silviculture Location: School of Forest Resources and Conservation (SFRC) University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) Gainesville, Florida Salary: Commensurate with Qualifications and Experience Review Date:For full consideration, candidates should apply and submit additional materials by March 12, 2018. The position will remain open until a viable applicant pool is determined. Duties and Responsibilities This is a 12-month position with tenure accruing in the SFRC, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, at the University of Florida. The assigned responsibilities will be 70% research (Florida Agricultural Experiment Station) and 30% teaching (College of Agricultural and Life Sciences). This assignment may change in accordance with the needs of the unit. The faculty member will develop an internationally recognized, externally funded research program focused on silviculture, with an emphasis on intensively managed planted forests. The successful candidate will assist with leadership of the corporate-university Forest Biology Research Cooperative and promote innovation in silviculture. This faculty member is expected to collaborate with IFAS scientists and others who work to understand silviculture of planted forests in Florida and elsewhere. Teaching responsibilities include a required undergraduate course in silviculture, and graduate course(s) in their area of specialty. Teaching may include online education and/or team- teaching within the SFRC undergraduate curricula. The faculty member will also participate in graduate education by advising students, serving on graduate committees, supervising thesis and dissertation research, publishing results jointly with graduate students, and actively engage with students from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. The faculty member must be supportive of the Land-Grant system, as all IFAS faculty members are expected to be supportive of and engaged in all three mission areas—Research, Teaching and Extension— regardless of the assignment split specified in the position description. Extension opportunities exist through the Forest Biology Research Cooperative. The faculty member must also have a commitment to the IFAS core values of excellence, diversity, global involvement, and accountability. Required Qualifications A doctorate degree (foreign equivalent acceptable) and research experience in silviculture or closely related discipline such as forest ecology, modeling, geospatial analysis, plant nutrition, genetics, and/or forest soils with demonstrated interest and expertise in intensively managed planted forests. Preferred Qualifications Postdoctoral experience is desirable. Candidates should have demonstrated skills in publication of peer-reviewed research, verbal communication, interpersonal relationships, teamwork, engagement with diverse stakeholders, and procurement of extramural funding. Background Information: The School of Forest Resources and Conservation (www.sfrc.ufl.edu) has teaching, research, and extension education programs in three broad areas: Forest resources and conservation; Geomatics (surveying, mapping, remote sensing, GIS, and GPS); and Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences. The SFRC has 50 faculty members, 70 affiliate, courtesy, and emeritus faculty, 250 graduate students, and 300 undergraduate students. The School offers bachelor’s degrees in Forest Resources and Conservation, Natural Resource Conservation, Geomatics, and Marine Sciences; thesis and non-thesis master’s degrees in all focus areas, including a number of innovative distance education master’s programs; and Ph.D. degrees in all focus areas. The SFRC is committed to serving a diversity of stakeholders, including historically under-served communities throughout Florida, and beyond. The University of Florida (http://www.ufl.edu) is a Land-Grant, Sea- Grant, and Space-Grant institution, encompassing virtually all academic and professional disciplines, with an enrollment of more than 53,000 students. UF is a member of The Association of American Universities. The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (http://ifas.ufl.edu) includes the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (http://cals.ufl.edu), the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station (http://research.ifas.ufl.edu), the Florida Cooperative Extension Service (http://extension.ifas.ufl.edu), the College of Veterinary Medicine (http://www.vetmed.ufl.edu), the Florida Sea Grant program (http://www.flseagrant.org/ ), and encompasses 16 on-campus academic departments and schools, 12 Research and Educational Centers (REC) located throughout the state, 6 Research sites/demonstration units administered by RECs or academic departments, and Florida Cooperative Extension Service offices in all 67 counties (counties operate and maintain). The School of Natural Resources and
[ECOLOG-L] Lecturer Position Available - Spatial Information Utilization In Forests and Natural Resource Management
The School of Forest Resources and Conservation seeks a lecturer with expertise in undergraduate teaching, spatial information, and forests. This is a 12-month, 0.75-FTE, non-tenure-accruing position that will be 100% teaching. Duties will include (1) teaching two undergraduate courses (*Forest Resource Information Systems* and *Urban Forestry*), (2) supporting other faculty in the delivery of coursework, such as in plant community identification, resource quantification/characterization, forest ecology and similar courses; and (3) supporting the management of the University of Florida’s experimental forest (Austin Cary Forest) through maintenance of the existing Geographic Information System (GIS). For full consideration, candidates should apply and submit additional materials by 1 April 2017. The position will remain open until a viable applicant pool is determined. The full announcement is available here: http://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/cw/en-us/job/501648 For additional questions, contact Dr. Michael Andreu mand...@ufl.edu
[ECOLOG-L] Assistant Professor – Geospatial Analytics, Univer sity of Florida
*Assistant Professor – Geospatial Analytics: Resilient Communities and Natural Resources University of Florida School of Forest Resources and Conservation (SFRC), Gainesville, Florida* 12-month position with tenure accruing in the SFRC and joint appointments in the Program for Resources Efficient Communities and Center for Landscape Conservation and Ecology. The assigned responsibilities will be 60% research (Florida Agricultural Experiment Station) and 40% extension (Florida Cooperative Extension Service), Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, at the University of Florida. This is one of four advertised positions in a multidisciplinary cohort that will work together and with other scientists to address issues related to environmentally resilient, resource efficient land use and community planning. In research, the faculty member will develop active, successful, nationally recognized and externally funded programs in the use of geospatial sciences to enhance community resilience and urban natural resource conservation. In extension, the emphasis will be on collaborating with land development, community management and natural resource professionals in both the public and private sectors to quantify impacts associated with specific land use patterns, land management plans and mixed-use community proposals. The faculty member will teach one class per year. A doctorate in Urban Regional Planning; Geography; Forest Resources; Geomatics; Engineering; or other discipline is required. Skills and experience directly related to geospatial analytics are essential and their applications in land, community and/or natural resource development, sustainability and/or resilience are highly desirable. For questions about the position, contact Dr Michael Andreu, mand...@ufl.edu. To apply go online to http://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/cw/en-us/job/493118.
[ECOLOG-L] 2 PhD fellowships available
The University of Florida Water Institute seeks applicants for 2 Ph.D. Fellows to join an interdisciplinary team (six faculty members and twelve PhD fellows in geography, forestry, #64257;sheries, and environmental engineering) working on the complex and interconnected set of biophysical and social impacts brought about by the construction and operation of hydroelectric dams and associated infrastructure in the Amazon. We are actively seeking students who have backgrounds in fish and fisheries management, forest/wetland/landscape ecology, and/or large-scale land use/land cover change and who have an interest in working collaboratively in a team of students and faculty with shared interests. Each student should be eager to develop research focused on one or more of the program’s interdisciplinary research themes: interactions among deforestation, land use, and hydrology; feedbacks between watershed processes and riverine ecohydrology; #64257;sheries dynamics in transforming watersheds; land con#64258;ict dynamics in the wake of dam construction projects; dam impacts on economy, deforestation, and disease; and economic transformation of the Amazon Basin. Fellows will form a cohort and will bene#64257;t from international #64257;eld experience in the Brazilian Amazon region and integrative activities that enhance interdisciplinary skills. The 4-year fellowships include a $25,000 annual stipend, tuition waiver and health insurance. For more information and the online application, visit http://waterinstitute.u#64258;.edu/WIGF/
[ECOLOG-L] Ph.D. positions available in interdisciplinary program on Amazon dams
The University of Florida (UF) Water Institute Graduate Fellows Program is offering an opportunity for six Ph.D. students to join an interdisciplinary cohort working on the complex and interconnected set of biophysical and social impacts brought about by the construction and operation of hydroelectric dams in the Amazon. The worlds largest watershed, the Amazon is a global provider of key ecosystem services and is being transformed by dam construction and other infrastructure development. The UF student faculty/cohort will work within an already existing research network that includes Amazonian institutions and other researchers worldwide that seeks to understand and manage these transformations. We seek students who have an interest in working collaboratively in a team of students and faculty with shared interests, but distinct disciplinary backgrounds as described here: http://waterinstitute.ufl.edu/WIGF/2015Cohort/ParticipatingFaculty_2015.asp. In particular, Dr. Denis Valle and Dr. Stephanie Bohlman are seeking students to develop research focused on interactions among deforestation, land use, and hydrology (Dr. Bohlman) or quantifying dam impacts on economy, deforestation, and disease (Dr. Valle). Preferred applicants will be highly motivated, have interdisciplinary experience, have strong quantitative skills, and competitive GPA/GRE scores (50% percentile required). Both US and non-US citizens are eligible for these fellowships. The 4-year fellowships include a $25,000 annual stipend, tuition waiver and health insurance. Fellows will bene#64257;t from international amp;#64257;eld experience in the Brazilian Amazon region and integrative activities that enhance interdisciplinary skills. For more information and the online application, visit http://waterinstitute.u#64258;.edu/WIGF/ or contact Dr. Bohlman (sbohl...@ufl.edu) and Dr. Valle (drva...@ufl.edu). If you are interested in pursuing a graduate degree on this project, please submit a CV, GRE scores and GPA, contact information for three references, and a brief statement of your research interests, career goals, and why you would like to pursue a graduate degree via the application link (http://waterinstitute.u#64258;.edu/WIGF/). . Information about Gainesville, Florida: Situated in the rolling countryside of north-central Florida, Gainesville is much more than a stereotypical college town. Home of the University of Florida, seat of Alachua County's government and the region's commercial hub, it is progressive, environmentally conscious and culturally diverse. UF has an internationally recognized program in Tropical Conservation and Development (TCD) that draws students from, and has created an alumni network, around the world. The presence of many students and faculty from abroad among its 99,000-plus population adds a strong cross-cultural flavor to its historic small-town Southern roots. Its natural environment, temperate climate and civic amenities make Gainesville a beautiful, pleasant and interesting place in which to learn and to live. Gainesville has been ranked as one of the best cities to live in the United States.
[ECOLOG-L] PhD opportunity: Plant functional diversity and ecosystem processes
PhD opportunity: Plant functional diversity and ecosystem processes University of Florida, Gainesville, Department of Biology We seek a bright and energetic student to join a team of plant ecologists, plant systematists, and microbial ecologists to explore linkages between functional traits, phylogenetic diversity, microbial diversity, and ecosystem properties (e.g., net primary production) in two disjunct regions with a shared evolutionary history: eastern North America and eastern Asia. This NSF-funded project ( www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1442280HistoricalAwards=false https://mail.ufl.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=_OlN2mGYD0arfwj_bC7XmRAhIUjpqdEItudMv4U3OVhdD2O2ldtOKe8OIUVA1wrZuW3_u3Flels.URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.nsf.gov%2fawardsearch%2fshowAward%3fAWD_ID%3d1442280%26HistoricalAwards%3dfalse) involves multiple U.S. and Chinese institutions. The successful candidate will develop a research project that explores relationships between plant functional traits (e.g., specific leaf area, leaf nitrogen concentration, wood density) and ecosystem properties at six NEON (www.neoninc.org/ https://mail.ufl.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=_OlN2mGYD0arfwj_bC7XmRAhIUjpqdEItudMv4U3OVhdD2O2ldtOKe8OIUVA1wrZuW3_u3Flels.URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.neoninc.org%2f) sites in the eastern U.S. (from Florida to New Hampshire). Similar data will be collected by collaborators in China. There are opportunities to incorporate phylogenetic perspectives and/or high-spatial-resolution hyperspectral remote sensing into the research program. The University of Florida (UF) team includes experts in plant ecology, ecosystem ecology, plant phylogenetics, microbial ecology, and remote sensing. We do not expect any one person to work across all of these fields, but there are lots of opportunities to collaborate and explore. In addition to contributing to the above project, the PhD student would be expected to develop his/her own research ideas under the guidance of their primary advisors: Michelle Mack (UF and Northern Arizona University) and Jeremy Lichstein (UF). Qualifications: Undergraduate or Master’s degree in ecology, botany, environmental science, or related fields; previous experience with field research, data collection, and scientific writing; evidence of ability to work as part of a team. Funding: Research and Teaching Assistantships (covering tuition and living expenses) are available from the UF Department of Biology and the NSF award budget. Details will depend on the outcome of the competitive Dept. of Biology admissions process, but we anticipate that 3.5 years of RA support will be available, with additional semesters funded through a TA or an external fellowship. Start date: Preference will be given to candidates available to be begin field work at NEON sites in summer 2015, and enter the UF graduate program in fall 2015. Application instructions: Submit an application to the UF Department of Biology graduate program (deadline December 11, 2014): http://www.biology.ufl.edu/Graduate/Application.aspx https://mail.ufl.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=_OlN2mGYD0arfwj_bC7XmRAhIUjpqdEItudMv4U3OVhdD2O2ldtOKe8OIUVA1wrZuW3_u3Flels.URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.biology.ufl.edu%2fGraduate%2fApplication.aspx. Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Michelle Mack ( mcm...@ufl.edu) and/or Jeremy Lichstein (jlichst...@ufl.edu) PRIOR to submitting an application to UF. We can help assess if this project is a good fit for prospective applicants, and provide guidance on the UF application process. Minorities, women, and members of other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.
[ECOLOG-L] assistant professor in plant ecology
The Bates College Department of Biology invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor of Plant Ecology, beginning 1 August 2015. The successful applicant’s teaching will include Biostatistics (Biology 244); rotation through our core course in Ecology and Evolution (Biology 270); and electives that serve our major, related fields of study, and general education requirements. The specific research area within plant ecology is open, but the candidate’s teaching and thesis supervision should be able to contribute to our interdisciplinary program in Environmental Studies. Bates and the Biology Department are committed to enhancing the diversity of the campus and the curriculum. We welcome applications from all individuals with the ability to contribute to the college’s continuing commitment to social and cultural diversity, inclusiveness, and the transformative power of our differences. The search committee expects applicants to identify their strengths and experiences in these areas and describe how their research, teaching, and/or outreach can further this goal. *QUALIFICATIONS* Ph.D. required by start date, postdoctoral experience preferred. *APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS* Review of applications begins *10 October 2014*, and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants should submit in PDF format, a cover letter, curriculum vitae, unofficial graduate transcripts, and statements on teaching and research, including plans for involving undergraduates in a research program. Please also arrange for the submission of at least two (preferably three) letters of recommendation, in PDF format. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. websites: http://apply.interfolio.com/25634 http://www.bates.edu/biology/
[ECOLOG-L] Post-doctoral position linking hyperspectral-lidar data to tropical forest structure and dynamics
Post-doctoral position linking hyperspectral-lidar data to tropical forest structure and dynamics This postdoc will use high resolution hyperspectral-lidar remote sensing to inform the PPA forest dynamics model (Strigul et al. 2008, Ecological Monographs; Bohlman and Pacala 2012, Journal of Ecology) in species-rich tropical systems. We seek to understand how tree structural and physiological attributes that can be quantified by the image data relate to growth, mortality and allometry, which are key model inputs. Our goal is to identify groups of trees and species that have both similar dynamic rates and structural properties and distinct image characteristics. The post-doctoral researcher will analyze and synthesize image data and field data, such as individual tree growth rates and species structural and physiological traits, in the context of the PPA forest model. This research provides a unique opportunity to connect cutting-edge remote sensing technology/analysis with the development of a cutting-edge model of tropical forest dynamics. The ultimate goal of the project is to extend understanding and predictive capability from intensive study sites to wide swaths of tropical forest that are only accessible by airborne remote sensing systems. The position will be based at the University of Florida and focused on field sites in Panama. The University of Florida provides a strong academic community for tropical and ecological research. The position requires background and skills in remote sensing, background in ecology, forestry and/or plant physiology, strong quantitative skills, demonstrated ability to publish and to assist in grant writing, and good ability to work collaboratively. Familiarity with forest models is a plus. Please send a cover letter describing your research interests and skills and how they relate to this position, along with a CV and the names/contact information of 3 references, to: Stephanie Bohlman, School of Forest Resources and Conservation, University of Florida, sbohl...@ufl.edu.
[ECOLOG-L] postdoc, tropical forest modeling
Postdoctoral Researcher: Modeling tropical forest response to global change Supervisors: Jeremy Lichstein (http://people.biology.ufl.edu/jlichstein/index.html) and Stephanie Bohlman (http://sfrc.ufl.edu/faculty/Bohlman/index.html) We seek a bright, creative, and highly-motivated postdoctoral researcher to pave new directions in modeling the dynamics of tropical forests and/or the physiology of tropical trees. Candidates are encouraged to propose specific research questions related to one or more of the following themes: How have tropical forests responded to global change, and how will they respond in the future? How can we quantify the functional diversity of tropical tree communities, and how can we accurately represent this diversity in global ecosystem models designed to study feedbacks between the carbon cycle and climate change? What is the minimal set of plant traits needed to capture tropical tree functional diversity in Farquhar- type physiological models of individual growth, mortality, and fecundity? This position offers an exciting opportunity to leverage world-class datasets from Barro Colorado Island (BCI) and adjacent sites in Panama on the dynamics, functional traits, and temperature acclimation (http://people.biology.ufl.edu/jlichstein/respiration_summary.pdf) of tropical trees to improve the representation of tropical forest dynamics and tree physiology in global ecosystem models. Recently initiated eddy- covariance data from BCI are also available from collaborators at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Candidates interested in forest dynamics modeling are encouraged to capitalize on the recently developed PPA model, which uses a simple but accurate mathematical approximation to represent height-structured light competition among individual trees (Purves et al. 2008, PNAS, 105:17018-17022; Lichstein and Pacala 2011, Theoretical Ecology, 4:269-281; Bohlman and Pacala 2012, J. of Ecology, 100:508-518). The PPA model is being incorporated into a new version of the NOAA-GFDL global land model. Candidates interested in modeling tropical tree physiology are encouraged to develop statistical machinery based on likelihood or Bayesian methods to link key plant traits (e.g., LMA, Amax, Rdark, and wood density) to the carbon balance and vital rates (growth, mortality, and fecundity) of individual trees in the context of Farquhar-type photosynthetic models that are commonly used in global vegetation models. Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field of study. Preference will be given to candidates with strong quantitative and skills and demonstrated experience in their proposed area of research. Two years of funding are available, with competitive salary (commensurate with experience) and benefits. Start date: Flexible, with a preferred date no later than January 14, 2013. To apply: Send a single pdf file to Jeremy Lichstein (jlichst...@ufl.edu) including: (i) one-page cover letter summarizing research interests and qualifications; (ii) one-page proposal describing specific goals for postdoctoral research in tropical forest dynamics and/or tree-physiology modeling; (iii) CV; and (iv) contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin on Sept. 24, 2012. Minorities, women and members of other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.
[ECOLOG-L] GIS Specialist, U.S. Forest Service
GIS Data Services Specialist – Forest disturbance and carbon cycling Location: Newton Square, Pennsylvania (U.S. Forest Service Northern Research Station) Employer: University of Florida Supervisors: Richard Birdsey (http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/people/Birdsey/) and Jeremy Lichstein (http://biology.ufl.edu/People/faculty/jlichstein.aspx) Overview: This position is located in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania at the U.S. Forest Service Northern Research Station (Climate, Fire, and Carbon Cycle Sciences Research Work Unit) and is part of a collaborative effort with the University of Florida, Department of Biology. Main duties are to provide Geographic Information System (GIS) and data management support for developing spatial databases that summarize current and historical forest disturbances: wildfire, insects, timber harvesting, wind, etc. Data sources include forest inventory data, aerial surveys, and existing spatial databases that need to be merged into a single, consistent database. We seek a candidate with expertise in managing very large data sets and in applying analysis techniques and models within a GIS framework. A Master’s or PhD degree in biological or environmental sciences with a strong emphasis on GIS and data management is preferred. Geographic Information Systems Applications (40%): Plan and execute complex projects involving digital image processing on data acquired from both space and airborne imaging platforms, such as Landsat, SPOT, AVHRR, RADARSAT, airborne digital camera, and LiDAR. Responsible for managing natural resource data, both spatial and tabular. Work closely with staff in developing management interpretations and applications using GIS data. Provide technical support for various natural resources databases, including management of spatial data and related information structures. Develop applications using both spatial and relationship database queries and report writers as needed. Work with staff specialists in developing interpretations and applications of GIS data for natural resource modeling. Apply fundamental principles and techniques associated with modeling and analysis procedures related to geospatial and attribute data and products. Use spatial statistical tools for modeling geospatial and attribute data to simulate, estimate, interpolate, and predict ecosystem processes. GIS Database Administration (40%): Provide technical expertise and coordination in the design, implementation, management, analysis, and use of spatial and attribute databases. Develop policies and procedures to ensure geospatial and attribute database security and to allow appropriate access to data. Ensure consistency and quality of existing and newly created datasets. Develop spatial database input and output standards and ensure that data is in the correct format for data capture and data output. Coordinate relationship of layer design, spatial information, and database so the results of appropriate modeling techniques can be applied. Ensure cooperation with other organizations and staff personnel. Technical Analysis (20%): Perform statistical analyses using established methods and procedures. Assist senior staff in preparing integrated assessments of disturbance processes and their effects on ecosystems. Prepare reports summarizing analysis results and discussing their scientific, policy, and management implications. Duration and timing: One year, with an option to extend depending on the availability of funds. Start-date is flexible, with a preferred start date on or before January 14, 2013. Preferred qualifications: Master’s or PhD degree in biological or environmental sciences with a strong emphasis on GIS and data management. Salary: $50,000-62,000 (commensurate with experience) plus benefits. To apply: Send a single pdf including a cover letter explaining interest in and qualifications for the position, CV, and contact information for 3 references to Jeremy Lichstein (jlichst...@ufl.edu). Applications will be reviewed beginning on Sept. 24, 2012, and the position will remain open until filled. Minorities, women and members of other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.
[ECOLOG-L] Postdoctoral Researcher – Forest Ecosystem Modeling
Postdoctoral Researcher – Forest Ecosystem Modeling University of Florida, Gainesville, Department of Biology Supervisors: Jeremy Lichstein (http://biology.ufl.edu/People/faculty/jlichstein.aspx), Kaoru Kitajima (http://www.biology.ufl.edu/People/faculty/kitajima.aspx), and Stefan Gerber (http://soils.ifas.ufl.edu/personnel/gerber.html) We are pleased to announce an exciting opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in forest ecosystem modeling. This project will make use of a recently developed next-generation global ecosystem model that represents individual-level height-structured competition for light (see details below). The research questions are broadly defined to encompass the response of the forest carbon cycle to climate change, rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations, and other aspects of global change. The successful candidate will actively participate in developing a research program tailored to their specific interests. We are particularly interested in assimilating data sources that span multiple spatial and temporal scales, including plant trait databases, eddy-covariance tower networks, and forest inventories. We are currently collecting a novel data set as part of an NSF-funded study on the temperature response of tropical trees to experimental warming (see http://people.biology.ufl.edu/jlichstein/respiration_summary.pdf). This data set provides new observational constraints on the response of tropical forests to climate change. The University of Florida provides an exciting and diverse intellectual environment for research in ecosystem ecology and quantitative modeling. The Biology Department hosts leading research efforts in boreal, temperate, and tropical ecosystem ecology, as well as theoretical and computational biology. Collaborators in the School of Forest Resources and Conservation and the Department of Soil and Water Science provide additional resources and perspectives. The UF High Performance Computing Center (http://hpc.ufl.edu/) is a world-class computing facility. The new model, developed in collaboration with Princeton University and the NOAA Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL), combines the NOAA- GFDL LM3V land model (Shevliakova et al. 2009, Global Biogeochem. Cy. 23:GB2022; Gerber et al. 2010, Global Biogeochem. Cy. 24:GB1001) with the mathematically and computationally tractable PPA forest dynamics model (Strigul et al. 2008, Ecol. Monog.78:523-545; Purves et al. 2008, PNAS 105:17018-17022). Because the model is formulated at the scale of individual trees, it naturally accommodates successional diversity (e.g., pioneer and shade-tolerant tree species) and links directly to the millions of individual-level observations of tree growth and mortality available from forest inventory plots. We will encourage the successful candidate to take advantage of the new unique opportunities afforded by this new model, but we remain open to other models and modeling approaches. Qualifications: PhD in ecology, plant physiology, geosciences, applied mathematics, or related field; strong quantitative and writing skills. Preference will be given to applicants with (1) research experience in terrestrial ecosystem ecology or plant physiology, and (2) strong mathematical, statistical, and computational skills (i.e., proficiency with one or more scientific programming languages, such as C, FORTRAN, or R). Applicants who lack these qualifications should explain in a cover letter their motivation for transitioning to ecosystem modeling research and their preparation for doing so. Start date is flexible, with a preferred date before October 2012. Funding: two years, with competitive salary and benefits To Apply: Email a single pdf to Jeremy Lichstein (jlichst...@ufl.edu) with subject POSTDOC: ECOSYSTEM MODELING including (1) cover letter with a 1-2 page statement of research interests and goals; (2) CV; and (3) contact information for three references. Minorities, women and members of other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.
[ECOLOG-L] postdoc: temperature sensitivity of tropical forests
Postdoctoral Research Fellow Project title: Modeling the Temperature Sensitivity of Plant Respiration University of Florida, Gainesville, Department of Biology Supervisors: Jeremy Lichstein (http://biology.ufl.edu/People/faculty/jlichstein.aspx), Kaoru Kitajima (http://www.biology.ufl.edu/People/faculty/kitajima.aspx), and Stefan Gerber (http://soils.ifas.ufl.edu/personnel/gerber.html) Plant respiration consumes roughly half of gross primary productivity and is expected to increase with climate warming. In the tropics in particular, plant respiration rates are expected to increase relative to photosynthetic rates as the climate warms. The resulting decrease in tropical net primary productivity (NPP) could threaten the sustainability of current terrestrial carbon sinks, resulting in a positive feedback to climate change. Alternatively, temperature acclimation of respiration could minimize future temperature-induced NPP declines. This project will use a state-of-the-art ecosystem process model to quantify the impact of climate change on terrestrial carbon balance, with particular emphasis on the temperature sensitivity and acclimation of plant respiration. The project will leverage multiple data sources, including an ongoing NSF- funded study on the temperature response of tropical trees to experimental warming. The NSF study involves in-situ measurements of leaf and branch respiration using a canopy crane in central Panama, as well as experiments with tropical tree seedlings (for more details, see http://people.biology.ufl.edu/jlichstein/respiration_summary.pdf). These and other data sources are providing improved information on the temperature sensitivity and acclimation of plant respiration at scales ranging from leaves to whole plants. However, our understanding of the ecosystem-to global-scale implications of these fine-scale processes remains primitive. The successful candidate will use a process-oriented ecosystem model to “scale up” leaf- and plant-level measurements to whole ecosystems. Candidate models include the Ecosystem Demography (ED) model (Moorcroft et al. 2001, Ecol. Monog. 71:557-586; Medvigy et al. 2009, J. Geophys. Res. 114:G01002) and the NOAA-GFDL LM3V land model (Shevliakova et al. 2009, Global Biogeochem. Cy. 23:GB2022; Gerber et al. 2010, Global Biogeochem. Cy. 24:GB1001). In support of the NSF-funded project described above, the modeling work will include applications focused on central Panama. In addition, there is considerable freedom to develop complementary aspects of the research program, which could (for example) extend this work to broader spatial scales. Qualifications: PhD in ecology, plant physiology, geosciences, applied mathematics, or related field; strong quantitative and writing skills. Preference will be given to applicants with (1) research experience in terrestrial ecosystem ecology or plant physiology, and (2) strong mathematical, statistical, and computational skills (i.e., proficiency with one or more scientific programming languages, such as C, FORTRAN, or R). Applicants who lack these qualifications should explain in a cover letter their motivation for transitioning to ecosystem modeling research. Start date is flexible, with a preferred start date before October 2012. Funding: two years, with competitive salary and benefits To Apply: Email a single pdf to Jeremy Lichstein (jlichst...@ufl.edu) with subject POSTDOC-RESPIRATION including (1) cover letter with a 1-2 page statement of research interests and goals; (2) CV; and (3) contact information for three references. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will remain open until filled. Minorities, women and members of other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.
[ECOLOG-L] PhD opportunity: temperature sensitivity of tropical forest NPP
Graduate Research Assistant Project title: Modeling the Temperature Sensitivity of Plant Respiration University of Florida, Gainesville, Department of Biology Supervisors: Jeremy Lichstein (http://biology.ufl.edu/People/faculty/jlichstein.aspx), Kaoru Kitajima (http://www.biology.ufl.edu/People/faculty/kitajima.aspx), and Stefan Gerber (http://soils.ifas.ufl.edu/personnel/gerber.html) Plant respiration consumes roughly half of gross primary productivity and is expected to increase with climate warming. In the tropics in particular, plant respiration rates are expected to increase relative to photosynthetic rates as the climate warms. The resulting decrease in tropical net primary productivity (NPP) could threaten the sustainability of current terrestrial carbon sinks, resulting in a positive feedback to climate change. Alternatively, temperature acclimation of respiration could minimize future temperature-induced NPP declines. This project will use a state-of-the-art ecosystem process model to quantify the impact of climate change on terrestrial carbon balance, with particular emphasis on the temperature sensitivity and acclimation of plant respiration. The project will leverage multiple data sources, including an ongoing NSF- funded study on the temperature response of tropical trees to experimental warming. The NSF study involves in-situ measurements of leaf and branch respiration using a canopy crane in central Panama, as well as experiments with tropical tree seedlings (for more details, see http://people.biology.ufl.edu/jlichstein/respiration_summary.pdf). These and other data sources are providing improved information on the temperature sensitivity and acclimation of plant respiration at scales ranging from leaves to whole plants. However, our understanding of the ecosystem-to global-scale implications of these fine-scale processes remains primitive. The successful candidate will use a process-oriented ecosystem model to “scale up” leaf- and plant-level measurements to whole ecosystems. Candidate models include the Ecosystem Demography (ED) model (Moorcroft et al. 2001, Ecol. Monog. 71:557-586; Medvigy et al. 2009, J. Geophys. Res. 114:G01002) and the NOAA-GFDL LM3V land model (Shevliakova et al. 2009, Global Biogeochem. Cy. 23:GB2022; Gerber et al. 2010, Global Biogeochem. Cy. 24:GB1001). In support of the NSF-funded project described above, the modeling work will include applications focused on central Panama. In addition, there is considerable freedom to develop complementary aspects of the research program, which could (for example) extend this work to broader spatial scales. Qualifications: Undergraduate degree in biology, environmental science, applied mathematics, computer science, or related field. Funding: 2.5 years of Research Assistant support are available, including summer support and funds for independent field work. Additional funding is available through UF Department of Biology Teaching Assistantships and external funding sources. Start date: Fall semester (August) 2012. Application instructions: Submit an application to the UF Department of Biology graduate program (deadline December 15, 2011): http://www.biology.ufl.edu/Graduate/Application.aspx. Minorities, women and members of other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.
[ECOLOG-L] graduate student opportunity
Graduate Research Assistantship in Tropical Forest Ecology in the School of Forest Resources and Conservation at the University of Florida. The M.S. or Ph.D. research assistantship begins preferably in the fall 2011 or winter 2012, but possibly summer or fall 2012. I study forest structure/dynamics, carbon cycling and tree species distributions from local to regional scales using a combination of field data, remote sensing and modeling. I am looking for a graduate student who is interested in one or more of these areas. My website http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/faculty/Bohlman/index.html provides more details on the types of projects in which I am involved.The ideal candidate is highly motivated and self-directed; has a background and/or interest in ecology or forestry; has quantitative skills in math, statistics, GIS and/or remote sensing; demonstrated writing skills; has worked on and completed independent research project(s); can provide at least 2 excellent references if requested. Qualifications: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science and/or demonstrated interest and competence/experience in ecology, modeling or GIS/remote sensing . Please email (1) a resume/CV, with GRE scores listed if available and (2) a letter stating your interests, background, qualifications and long-term goals to Dr. Stephanie Bohlman (sbohl...@ufl.edu). The assistantship will include (1) a tuition waiver, (2) an annual stipend of $16,000 and (3) health insurance. UF offers an excellent across discipline support and intellectual community for students involved in ecology and conservation, especially focused in tropical regions.
[ECOLOG-L] graduate assistantship in tropical forest ecology
Graduate Research Assistantship in Tropical Forest Ecology in the School of Forest Resources and Conservation at the University of Florida. The M.S. or Ph.D. research assistantship begins in August 2011. I am seeking a highly motivated, quantitatively skilled graduate student to work on tropical forest ecology. I study landscape patterns of species distribution, carbon cycling and forest structure/dynamics using a combination of modeling, remote sensing and field data. I am looking for a graduate student who is interested in one or more of these areas. My website http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/faculty/Bohlman/index.html provides more details on the types of projects in which I am involved. Qualifications: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science and demonstrated interest and competence/experience in ecology, modeling or GIS/remote sensing. Please email a resume and a letter stating your interests, background, qualifications and long-term goals to Dr. Stephanie Bohlman (sbohl...@ufl.edu). The assistantship will include an annual stipend, tuition and fees.
