Research Internship to study the effect of climate warming on tropical forest soil carbon dynamics
We are seeking a motivated research intern to work at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) in Panama from July/August 2018 for a period of approximately 9 months. The intern will perform data collection and carry out experiments on a tropical forest soil warming experiment within the Barro Colorado Nature Monument in Panama. The work will include taking regular measurements on gas flux exchange, seedling and root dynamics, soil chemistry and soil microbiology. The assistant will also help with sample collection, sample processing and data entry. The position will be mostly field-based but will also involve processing samples in the lab and carrying out soil analyses. Training in the appropriate methods will be provided. The intern will join a vibrant community of scientists studying tropical forest ecology and soil biogeochemistry (see http://www.stri.si.edu). The intern will be based in Gamboa (central Panama) and commute to the project site, based in lowland tropical forest on Barro Colorado Island. Occasionally the intern will carry out laboratory analyses at the Tupper facility (Panama City). Applicants must have a background in Environmental Science, Ecology or Biology, be reliable and motivated to do field research and be able to work long hours in the field, carrying equipment and samples. Applicants must be able to work independently. A knowledge of Spanish, R and the ability to drive would be useful but not essential. A stipend of US$1000/month will be provided to cover accommodation and living costs in Panama. Please send applications to Dr Andrew Nottingham (andrew.notting...@ed.ac.uk), with a short letter of motivation, a CV and the names and contact details of two referees, before 17th June 2018. Please use the subject header: “STRI RESEARCH INTERNSHIP”.
