Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships

EPA STAR Fellowships: http://es.epa.gov/ncerqa/rfa/gradfell.html

Howard Hughes Medical Institute: http://www4.nas.edu/osep/fo.nsf

NASA Earth System Science Fellowship Program: http://www.earth.nasa.gov/education/ess99/index.html

NASA Graduate Research Environmental Fellowships: http://www.atmos.anl.gov/GCEP/gref.html

National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship Program: http://www.asee.org/ndseg/

NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program: http://www.nsf.gov/home/ehr/start.htm (general education info)
and http://www.nsf.gov/cgi-bin/getpub?nsf99136 for specifics of grad fellowship.

University of Louisiana: Evolutionary Ecology Research Fellowships. Competitive fellowships are available for Ph.D. students in The Department of Biology. Students will participate in an NSF-funded study of the evolutionary biology, ecological physiology, and community ecology of Iris hexagona, a native glycophytic wetland plant that has colonized a salt-marsh ecosystem. We are currently targeting Iris hexagona below-ground responses to stress, herbivory, and floral predation. A summary and photographs of the project can be viewed at http://www.ucs.louisiana.edu/~sxm1886/. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in ecology and evolutionary biology and with experience in molecular genetics, phytochemistry, and/or modeling and experimental design in ecological systems. The fellowships are 3-4 years in duration and begin Fall semester 2000. Stipends range from $12-17,000 per year with a full tuition waiver. Lafayette is only two hours from New Orleans and has a unique cajun/creole/French culture and relatively low cost of living. Interested applicants should send their curriculum vitae, copies of transcripts, GRE scores, names and phone numbers of three references, and a letter describing research and career objectives to Susan Mopper, Department of Biology, University of Louisiana, Lafayette, LA 70504-2451, Phone: 337-482-6277, email: mop@louisiana.edu. Laissez les bons temps roullez! Posted: 1/14/00.

Arizona State University: Project Title: Ecosystems in Transition: Causes and Consequences of Dramatic Shifts in Growth Form Dominance. Description: This project will involve a retrospective (20+ yr) landscape-level analysis of shrub invasion in the tallgrass prairie. In addition, field experiments in which the direct and indirect effects of fire are separated and resources are manipulated independently in and around shrub islands will be conducted. The project will also quantify the consequences of the conversion of a C4 grassland to C3 shrub community at the individual plant, community and ecosystem level. This project will need a motivated, hard-working individual who can work independently in the field. Location: Plant Biology at Arizona State University, for additional details on the degree program see: http://lsvl.la.asu.edu/plantbiology/. The field work will take place at the Konza Prairie Biological Field Station (http://www.konza.ksu.edu) thus, the successful applicant will be expected to spend a portion of their time at the station. Qualifications: Candidates should have a Bachelors or Masters degree in an ecological discipline; High interest in Plant Ecology and/or Ecosystem Ecology; Strong quantitative skills with computer and GIS applications highly desirable. Stipend: $21,240/12 months plus out-of-state tuition waiver. Stipends include health insurance. Available: The successful candidate could start August, 2000 or in January 2001. Application: Details for application to graduate school are at http://lsvl.la.asu.edu/plantbiology/text/grad.htm. Send letter of interest, CV, copies of transcripts and GRE scores, and the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of 3 references to: Dr. John M. Briggs, Department of Plant Biology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1601, 480-727-7360, 480-965-6899 (FAX), John.Briggs@asu.edu, http://129.219.149.4/. Posted: 5/23/00.

Duke University: Three Graduate Research Assistantships at the School of the Environment, Duke University. Funding is available for three graduate research assistantships in the areas of Biosphere-Atmosphere Exchange and Physiological Ecology. The project investigates the coupling between the hydrologic and carbon cycles in order to quantify mechanisms affecting carbon sequestration in forest ecosystems. The candidates will be responsible for measurements of CO2 and H2O fluxes, forest structure, microclimate, soil physical properties, and plant hydraulic and physiological properties. These measurements will be used to develop and test biosphere-atmosphere models of carbon and water exchange for use in AmeriFlux tower sites and the Duke Free Air CO2 Enrichment (FACE) facility. Strong quantitative background (e.g. Mathematics, Statistics, or Physics) is required. In addition, a background in biology, especially ecological physiology is desirable. Please Contact: Ram Oren (ramoren@duke.edu; Ph. 919-613-8032), David Ellsworth (ellswort@bnl.gov; Ph. 919-613-8089) or Gabriel Katul (gaby@duke.edu; Ph. 919-613-8033) at the School of the Environment, Box 90328, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708-0328, U.S.A.

Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH-Zurich): Two graduate student (PhD) positions (50%) are available in the Department of Forest Sciences. The first deals with landscape-ecological questions relating to the dynamics of mountain forests under the influence of fire, wind, and insect infestations. Besides raster-based forest inventory data, remote sensing should be used to adapt, calibrate and evaluate models of landscape-scale dynamics. The study will be implemented as a comparative analysis between the European Alps and the Colorado Front Range. 1-2 stays in the US are envisaged. Candidates should have an M.Sc. in forest sciences, environmental sciences, biology, geography or a related field, and should be skilled in mathematical modelling, remote sensing, and GIS. Co-advisor for this project: PD Dr. F. Kienast, WSL, Birmensdorf. The second project deals with the use of dendroecological data for the derivation of process descriptions and the evaluation of ecological models. Case studies ranging from the patch to the continental scale will be selected to develop and test methodologies for these purposes. A collaboration with the US VEMAP project is envisaged. Candidates should have an M.Sc. in forest sciences, environmental sciences or biology, and should have skills in mathematical modelling and the application of dendrochronological methods. Co-advisor for this project: Prof. Dr. F.H. Schweingruber, WSL, Birmensdorf. Applications including the names and addresses of two references (including their phone numbers and e-mail addresses) should be sent by September 1st, 1999, to Prof. Dr. Harald Bugmann, Mountain Forest Ecology ETHZ, ETH-Zentrum HG G22.3, CH-8092 Zürich, Switzerland. E-mail: bugmann@waho.ethz.ch (electronic applications not acceptable).

Florida International University: I have a research assistant position available for a graduate student to pursue a M.S. or Ph.D. in the Department of Biological Sciences at Florida International University, the public university of Florida at Miami (see http://www.fiu.edu/~biology/ for details about the department). The position is for research on a NSF-supported global change project based at Toolik Field Station in Northern Alaska. The project is investigating the effects of extending growing season length and soil warming on plant and ecosystem processes. The student will be expected to spend approximately 3 months in the field during the summers. Interested applicants must be available for field research in summer 2000, and should be energetic and field hardy. For more information contact: Steve Oberbauer: oberbaue@fiu.edu. To communicate with a graduate student currently on the project contact: Greg Starr: gstarr01@fiu.edu. Posted 12/21/99.

Johns Hopkins University: We are looking for several enthusiastic Ph.D. students to join in a new endeavor in Geobiology at Johns Hopkins Univeristy. Research topics include soil ecology, soil formation, biohydrology, plant-soil-animal interactions, paleoecology and paleoclimatology. Students are invited to participate in ongoing collaborations with the Baltimore Ecosystem Study (Long-Term Ecological Research Site), Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, or to design an original research project under the advisement of our faculty. In conjunction with the Department of Geography and Environmental Engineering, Earth and Planetary Sciences offers coursework opportunities in Aquatic Chemistry, Plant and Animal Ecology, Geobiology, Analytical Environmental Chemistry, Sedimentary Geochemistry, Evolution, Paleontology Groundwater Geology and a Field Course in Soil Science.Instrumentation in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences includes Stable Isotope Mass Spectrometry, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Microprobe and Transmission Electron Microscopy; current fieldwork is ongoing at several international sites. Upon acceptance to the Ph.D. program, the first year of support is guaranteed; continued support is contingent upon a student's involvement in research and/or departmental activities. For information about the department and its faculty, please visit our website: http://www.jhu.edu/~eps/, for information about Johns Hopkins University and life in Baltimore: http://www.jhu.edu/, to request an application: http://www.jhu.edu/~eps/apply.html or email cspangler@jhu.edu applications are due January 15). If you have questions about the Geobiology program, please contact Hope Jahren (jahren@jhu.edu) or Kathy Szlavecz (szlavecz@jhu.edu).

Joint Centre for Crop Improvement: Two scholarships ($21,000 pa.) are available to undertake PhD studies starting in 2000 on a project titled Improving the adaptation, profitability and reliability of pulses growing on hostile alkaline subsoils. The project aims to (1) Identify tolerance mechanisms to sub-soil limitations (especially boron and salinity) for pulse crops growing on highly alkaline soils (2) Gain a better understanding of how these subsoil limitations interact with seasonal conditions to affect crop growth and (3) Use computer simulation to identify novel agronomic management systems to overcome these limitations. Dr Roger Armstrong (Agriculture Victoria), and Prof. David Connor and Dr Marc Nicolas (University of Melbourne) will provide supervision. Applicants require either a first class or upper 2 honours degree in agriculture, environmental studies, botany or science with majors in either plant physiology or agronomy. Experience/interest in application of simulation modelling and knowledge of soil processes would be an advantage for one of the scholarships. For further information, please contact: Dr Roger Armstrong, Agriculture Victoria Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Horsham VIC, AUSTRALIA, Ph. 03 53 622 111, Roger.armstrong@nre.vic.gov.au; or Prof David Connor, Ph 039 344 5019, d.connor@landfood.unimelb.edu.au

Kansas State University: Belowground Carbon Sources and Sinks in Arctic Tundra. A graduate student research assistantship is available to work on a project to determine how climate change (nutrient enrichment and increased temperature) in tundra might alter plant carbon allocation and fluxes of plant-derived C through soil organic matter, soil water, and trace gases. The student will work with a research team (Knute Nadelhoffer and Ed Rastetter, Ecosystems Center, Marine Biological Lab; Loretta Johnson, Kansas State University; George Kling, University of Michigan) to apply 14C and 15N labels to tundra mesocosms in growth chambers and to field plots at the Toolik Lake Long Term Ecological Research Site on Alaska's North Slope. Applicants should be available to begin work on the project during summer 2000. Applicants should have experience in soil ecology and preferably the use of isotopic tracers in soils. Applicants should send a resume and contact Loretta Johnson, Ackert Hall, Rm 232, Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-4901, phone:785-532-6921, fax:785-532-6653, email: johnson@ksu.edu. Posted: 2/4/00.

Louisiana Tech University: A graduate research assistantship is available beginning Summer or Fall 2000. The assistantship will be filled on a competitive basis. The assistantship will be devoted to research on the regeneration ecology of a loblolly pine system under elevated CO2 and an altered moisture regime. The College of Applied and Natural Sciences, School of Biological Sciences and the Graduate Program web pages contain basic information about the programs and faculty. For further information concerning the project, contact: Dr. Milan C. Vavrek (mvavrek@latech.edu) or Dr. William J. Campbell (campbell@latech.edu), School of Biological Sciences, Louisiana Tech University, P.O. Box 3179, Ruston LA 71272-0001, Phone: 318-257-4573, FAX: 318-257-4574. General information about the graduate program and applications may be obtained by contacting: Dr. William J. Campbell, Interim Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research, College of Applied and Natural Sciences, Office of Graduate Studies and Research, School of Biological Sciences, Louisiana Tech University, Box 10197, T.S., Ruston LA 71272-0001, Phone: 318-257-4287. Posted: 4/25/00.

Max-Planck-Institute for Biogeochemistry: We are looking for a highly motivated Ph.D. student to join our newly funded EU project FORCAST. FORCAST studies carbon and nitrogen dynamics (pools and fluxes) in forest ecosystems across Europe. Sites range from Northern Sweden to Italy. FORCAST is part of an European cluster with the overall aim to quantify Europe's carbon sinks and sources. The Max-Planck-Institute for Biogeochemistry is located in Jena, Germany -- for more information see our web site: http://www.bgc-jena.mpg.de/english/index.html. The half-time position opens in February 2000 and runs for three years. The successful candidate will be responsible for improving 14C techniques for soil CO2 fluxes and for determining changes in carbon stocks with forest age and management. Candidates must have a M.Sc. or a Diplom in forest sciences, environmental sciences, biology, ecology, environmental chemistry or a related field. The candidates should be skilled in field and lab work and must be willing to travel internationally. Experiences in isotope work and sound working skills in the English language would be an advantage. Applications including names and addresses of two references (including their phone and e-mail addresses) should be sent by January 15th 2000 to Dr. Nina Buchmann, Max-Planck-Institut für Biogeochemie, Postfach 100164, 07701 Jena, Germany (buchmann@bgc-jena.mpg.de).

North Dakota State University: M.S. Assistantship available immediately. Selected applicant will work on a project designed to investigate the relationship among plant diversity, production, and stability in grassland ecosystems. The research project involves a combination of greenhouse and field experiments. The specific objectives of the project are: (1) Determine the relationship among plant diversity (taxa and functional form), plant community production and plant community stability; and (2) Determine the degree to which this relationship is driven by the interactions between the size, uptake rates, and scaling properties of plant root systems and the supply rate, mobility, and spatial distribution of soil nutrients. The field experiments are located at the NDSU Albert Ekre Grassland Preserve, 45 miles south-east of Fargo, ND. The assistantship stipend is $10,000 per year plus a tuition waiver. The selected student will be able to pursue studies in a variety of areas related to ecology, range science, and natural resource management. For more information please check the following web pages: http://www.ag.ndsu.nodak.edu/ars/animal_range_science_home.htm , http://www.ag.ndsu.nodak.edu/ars/nrm.htm . Submit application letter, resume, transcripts and the e-mail, phone number, and address of 3 references, to: Mario E. Biondini, Professor, Department of Animal and Range Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, Phone: (701) 231-8208, Fax: (701) 231-7590, e-mail: Mario_Biondini@ndsu.nodak.edu, http://www.ndsu.nodak.edu/instruct/biondini/vita/mebvita.htm

Oklahoma State University: Graduate Research Assistantship (MS for 2 years or PhD for 3 years) available beginning August 21, 2000. Successful candidate will participate in interdisciplinary ecology group studying dispersal mechanisms for a model invader-disperser system, eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) . The successful candidate's thesis work will involve assessing the relationship between invasibility and biodiversity. Preference to candidates with a degree in ecology or natural resources and research experience in perennial grassland or hardwood forest ecosystems. Send CV, GRE scores, list of three references, and transcripts to David M. Engle, Rangeland Ecology and Management, Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, 368 AGH, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078-6028. Phone: (405) 744-9623, Fax: (405) 744-5269, email: dme@agr.okstate.edu. Posted: 6/30/00.

Texas A&M University: Photosynthetic response of coastal wetland macrophytes. A graduate research assistantship is available August 1, 2000, for a highly-motivated, creative student to participate in a comprehensive, ecosystem-scale study of structure and function of the Nueces River Estuary in response to fluctuations in freshwater inflow (funded by USDA-NRI and NOAA-Sea Grant), and to pursue a Ph.D. in Molecular and Environmental Plant Science. The experimental site is located near Corpus Christi, TX, and is part of the Corpus Christi Bay Estuary, which has been designated as an Estuary of National Significance. Specific duties are to conduct independent research on photosynthetic response of the dominant macrophytes in the coastal wetlands to salinity. The beginning stipend is $15,500 per year plus health insurance. Tuition will be paid by project funds. Applicants should have a strong background in plant physiology, ecophysiology or ecology. Experience with gas exchange measurements is desirable. On-line application to graduate school at Texas A&M University is available at http://www.tamu.edu/admissions/ Send letters of interest, CV, copies of transcripts and GRE scores, and the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of three references to: Dr. James L. Heilman, Professor of Environmental Physics, Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Texas A&M University, 2474 TAMUS, College Station, TX, 77843-2474. Phone (979) 845-7169, FAX (979) 845-0456, email j-heilman@tamu.edu. Posted: 5/30/00.

Texas A&M University-Uvalde: The Range Ecology Research Program at the Uvalde Research and Extension Center of the Texas A&M University System is looking for a Doctoral student to participate in a savanna ecosystem project. The student will participate in an on going study of seed and seedling dynamics of dominant shrubs and grasses. The goal of this research project is to determine the rate and direction of vegetation change on shrub dominated rangelands that may result from changing biotic and abiotic environments. The successful student will have great latitude in designing and conducting experiments. This research project will focus on the growth and survival of 6 native species (3 shrubs and 3 grasses) during the seedling establishment life stage. The impact of water stress, light environment, seasonality of precipitation, and herbaceous interference on seedling establishment in current and predicted climates will be investigated in a series of experiments in the greenhouse, under small movable rainout shelters in the field, and in different landscapes. The student will conduct the research at the Research and Extension Center in Uvalde (located 90 miles west of San Antonio) and complete course work at the main campus in College Station. Stipend: $13,200/year plus health insurance. Beginning date: Spring or Fall 2000. For more information contact: Dr. M. Keith Owens, 1619 Garner Field Road, Uvalde, TX 78801, (830) 278 9151 ext 128, e mail: kowens@uvalde-ctr.tamu.edu. Posted: 5/11/00.

Texas A&M University-Commerce: Teaching Assistantships are available for Master of Science students beginning in Fall 2000 in the department of Biological and Earth Sciences. Research opportunities exist in Plant Physiological and Ecosystem Ecology, Toxicology, and Behavioral Ecology. The department has a large new greenhouse, a 1,800 acre experimental farm, a leaf area meter, a leaf image analysis system, an infra-red gas analyzer, a light bar, an HPLC, and other modern equipment. Furthermore, the 18,000 acre Caddo National Grasslands, other native prairies, several forested state park's, and four large lakes are within an hour's drive. Texas A&M University - Commerce is a Doctoral I University located 65 miles northeast of Dallas, Texas. For more information about my research and the department, please see the following websites: http://www.tamu-commerce.edu/coas/bwilsey/webpage.htm and http://www.tamu-commerce.edu/biology/. Interested applicants should send a CV and cover letter to: Brian J. Wilsey, Department of Biological and Earth Sciences, Texas A&M Univerisity - Commerce, Commerce, TX 75429, E-mail: Brian_Wilsey@tamu-commerce.edu, Phone: (903)468-6064, Fax: (903)886-5997. Posted: 1/13/00.

Texas Tech University: Ph.D. Assistantships in Wildlife Ecology. Projects: (1) Habitat and disturbance relationships of Migrating Wetland Birds in the Rainwater Basin Region of Nebraska; (2) Ecology of playa wetlands (various subjects open); (3) Riparian habitat establishment and ecology in the middle Rio Grande Valley, New Mexico. Qualifications: M.S. in Wildlife Ecology or closely related field. Salary: Starting assistantship is $13,000-$14,000/yr with health insurance, benefits, and waiver of non-resident tuition. Starting Dates: Late summer 2000. To Apply: Send GRE scores, transcripts, resume, 3 letters of recommendation, and letter of interest to Dr. Loren M. Smith, Department of Range, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409-2125, L.M.Smith@ttu.edu. Deadlines: Variable depending on project. Posted: 3/9/00.

Tufts University: Graduate Research Assistantship (M.S. or Ph.D.). A research assistantship, funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is available to a student interested in exploring the response of forest tree seedlings to environmental heterogeneity. More info at: <http://ase.tufts.edu/biology/faculty/corians/>. For further information contact Colin Orians, 120 Dana Building, Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155. Phone: (617) 627-3543; Fax: (617) 627-3805; Email: corians@tufts.edu. Posted: 2/2/00.

Tulane University: Lee Dyer is leaving Mesa State to start a position at Tulane University, and needs a PhD student (possibly 2). Seeking any student who has taken the GRE and who has an interest in tropical ecology, applied ecology, chemical ecology, or insect ecology. A TAship is guaranteed (about $15,000 per year with tuition waiver) for the first year and is renewable based on course grades and teaching evaluations. An RAship might be available (depends on pending grants) for the first year or subsequent years. For more details, please email: ldyer@mesastate.edu. For more information about Tulane, please visit http://www.tulane.edu. Posted: 4/14/00.

Tulane University: A graduate research assistantship is available at the MS or PhD level in plant ecology at Tulane University beginning August, 1999 or January, 2000. The graduate student will work on a collaborative project with a team of plant ecologists from Tulane University, Harvard University and the Universidad de Costa Rica who are investigating the phenology, water relations and carbon balance of dry forest trees, linking above- and below-ground activity and processes. Studies at the organism, community and ecosystem levels are in progress, and the student will have some latitude in selecting a research project within the broad team objective of understanding the roles of roots in acquiring, transporting and storing limited water resources. Techniques employed may include in situ observations of root activity using sequential harvest and minirhizotron methods, experimental manipulations of water supply and shoot demand, and field and laboratory examination of root hydraulic properties, root morphology and root anatomy. Field work will be conducted in the Guanacaste Conservation Area in Costa Rica, in old growth and regenerating forest along a successional sere, and in plantations of native dry forest trees. The successful applicant will have at least a Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or a closely related field and should be willing to work in remote field locations under physically demanding conditions. If selected, the applicant must meet all graduate admission requirements for regular admission to the Graduate School at Tulane University (http://www.tulane.edu/~gradprog/). The student will have the opportunity to receive his or her graduate degree in either Biology or Earth and Ecosystem Sciences. Send applications, including a letter of introduction, CV, 1-2 page statement of research interests, transcripts, self-reported GRE scores and the names of three references to Dr. Julie Whitbeck, EEO Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118. Tulane University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity institution and it is a member of the Organization for Tropical Studies.

United States Geological Survey: A position is available for an intern or M.S./Ph.D. student in ecosystem modeling with emphasis on the impact of land cover and land use change on carbon dynamics. He/she can also participate in the integration of ecological and economic models for the assessment of carbon sequestration potential at the national level. Modeling experiences and familiarity with tropical ecosystems and GIS are desirable, but not a prerequisite. This position starts in summer of 2000. Contact: Shuguang Liu, Senior Scientist, Raytheon Science Department, USGS EROS Data Center, Sioux Falls, SD 57198, Phone: 605-594-6168, Fax: 605-594-6529, Email: sliu@edcmail.cr.usgs.gov. Posted: 5/11/00.

University of Alaska Fairbanks: I seek a graduate research assistant to assist with the International Tundra Experiment (ITEX) field program and to develop an independent research program on some aspect of the work, toward a PhD at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. ITEX is a spatially distributed international effort to understand the effects of experimental warming on tundra plants and plant communities. ITEX experimental sites are located throughout the circumpolar Arctic region (Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Russia, Finland, and Norway) in temperate alpine sites in Colorado, the Alps, and Japan, and in a few Southern Hemisphere locations. The UAF team conducts research primarily at Toolik Lake, Alaska as well as leading synthetic efforts on ITEX in North America and throughout the network. ITEX experiments have been underway for one to seven years at its various locations. Suitable fields of interest include but are not limited to plant community ecology, plant population biology, modeling, and ecosystem analysis. This position begins June and is funded for 3 years. The student must apply and be accepted to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, either through the Forestry (interdisciplinary option) or Biology Departments. Applications are available online through http://www.uaf.edu. Continued funding is dependent upon continuing suitable progress toward a degree. The student will be expected to work as part of an integrated research team and should be interested in cooperative work. Demonstration of academic excellence and high potential is essential. Please contact Dr. Marilyn Walker, mwalker@lter.uaf.edu, prior to formally applying to school. Posted: 2/21/00.

University of Arizona: A fully funded Ph.D. research assistantship is available for an outstanding student to investigate the experimental effects of fire on vertebrate, invertebrate, and vegetation density and diversity in grasslands of southern Arizona grasslands. This will be a 4-year effort working in a team environment. Requirements: M.S. degree in Wildlife, Zoology, Ecology or related field Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.25 Beneficial Experience: Capturing and handling small mammals, and invertebrates, supervising field assistants, working as an integral part of a larger research collective. Support includes a stipend of $12,500 per year, including waiver of out-of-state tuition. Starting Date: Approximately 1 July 2000 Application Deadline: 1 June 2000 Send: Letter of Interest, resume, transcripts and GRE scores (unofficial are fine), and names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of three references before 1 June to: Bob Steidl, School of Renewable Natural Resources, University of Arizona, 325 Biological Sciences East, Tucson, Arizona 85721. For More Information: steidl@ag.arizona.edu or 520-626-3164. Posted: 5/2/00.

University of Arkansas: A graduate research assistantship is available for students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in ecology. The successful applicant will work on a multi-investigator project that examines the effects of invasion by cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) on nitrogen dynamics in arid regions of the western United States. The primary study site is in Canyonlands National Park, but opportunities exist for research in other desert ecosystems. The student will work in the lab of R.D. Evans at the University of Arkansas. The RA will cover the student stipend and tuition, plus all travel and research expenses. Exceptional students may also qualify for an additional research stipend from the University. The University of Arkansas has a young group of active ecologists offering a variety of courses in ecology and evolutionary biology. Excellent opportunities exist at the Center for Advanced Spatial Technologies for students interested in GIS and remote sensing, and at the Stable Isotope Science Center of the Ozarks for students interested in stable isotope applications in ecology. Requirements: The student must be accepted into the graduate program in Biological Sciences at the University of Arkansas. The starting date is spring semester of 2000, although this can be delayed for exceptional applicants. For more information, contact Dr. R. Dave Evans, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701. Phone: 501-575-7093. Email: devans@comp.uark.edu. Additional information will also be given at the web site: http://biology.uark.edu/devans/evans.html

University of Arkansas - Monticello: The School of Forest Resources, University of Arkansas at Monticello has a M.S. Assistantship available beginning in the summer or fall of 2000. The assistantship is half time and carries a stipend of $11,000 per year plus tuition. The project associated with this assistantship is studying the effect of fire on nutrient regimes and forest ecosystem processes that govern nutrient retention and distribution in southern pine/hardwood forests occurring in the Gulf Coastal Plain and Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas. Study sites include replicated plots in the Crossett Experimental Forest. These sites have received prescribed winter burns at differing intervals during the past 20 years. Study sites in the Ouachita Mountains have been operationally burned for a similar time period. Work will be done in cooperation with the U.S.D.A. Forest Service Southern Research Station and will include a combination of field and laboratory work. For additional information or to apply contact Dr. Hal O. Liechty, School of Forest Resources-UAM, P.O. Box 3468, Monticello AR 71656. Phone:870-460-1452, E-Mail:Liechty@uamont.edu or visit the SFR web site (http://www.afrc.uamont.edu/sfr/index.htm). Posted: 1/19/00.

University of Florida: Three (2 M.S. and 1 Ph.D.) assistantships available for students interested in forest ecology/ecophysiology. Location: School of Forest Resources and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville. For more information, contact: Shibu Jose, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, School of Forest Resources and Conservation, 5988 Hwy 90, Bldg. 4900, P.O. Box 3634, University of Florida, Milton, FL 32572-3634. Phone: (850) 983 2632, Fax: (850) 983 2637, sjose@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu, http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/Faculty/FacultyInfo.html, http://www.ifas.ufl.edu/~miltonweb/jose.htm. Posted: 5/2/00.

University of Florida: A half-time Ph.D. assistantship is available at the University of Florida's School of Forest Resources and Conservation in Gainesville. The successful applicant will undertake a research project in a fertigation trial examining resource (light, water and nutrients) use efficiency and carbon allocation patterns of several species of hardwoods and conifers. Minimum qualifications include a master's degree in forestry or in any biological sciences with strong interests in ecophysiology/tree nutrition, good written and oral communication skills, 3.0 GPA, and a GRE score of 1000 (Verbal and Quantitative). Interested students should send a letter of interest, resume, three letters of reference, transcripts (photocopy is acceptable at this point), and GRE score (photocopy is acceptable) to Dr. Shibu Jose, Assistant Professor, School of Forest Resources and Conservation, 5988 Hwy 90, Building 4900, P.O. Box 3634, University of Florida, Milton, FL 32572-3634. Phone (850) 983 2632, Fax (850) 983 2637, email: sjose@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu. Posted: 1/19/00.

University of Florida: A half-time Ph.D. assistantship is available (beginning summer/fall 2000) at the School of Forest Resources and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville. The successful applicant will undertake a research project examining leaf area, biomass allocation, and nutrient and water use efficiencies of intensively managed short rotation hardwood/pine plantations using a fertigation trial. Minimum qualifications include a master's degree in forestry or in any biological sciences with strong interests in ecophysiology/tree nutrition, good written and oral communication skills, 3.0 GPA, and a GRE score of 1000 (Verbal and Quantitative). Interested students should send a letter of interest, resume, transcripts (photocopy is acceptable at this point), GRE score (photocopy is acceptable), and names and addresses of three references to Dr. Shibu Jose, School of Forest Resources and Conservation, 5988 Hwy 90, Building 4900, P.O. Box 3634, University of Florida, Milton, FL 32572-3634. Phone (850) 983 2632, Fax (850) 983 2637, email: sjose@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu. Posted: 2/22/00.

University of Idaho: An assistantship is available for a M.Sc. student in Forest Pathology in the Department of Forest Resources of the University of Idaho. The student would focus on hyperparasitism (i.e., parasitism of parasites). Hyperparasitism is the basis for classical biological control of fungal parasites of plants. However, fungi that appear on parasite-killed host tissue may be hyperparasites or they may, in contrast, be opportunistic necrotrophic pathogens of the plant host. Preliminary research suggests that nitrogen isotope ratios would help to clarify relationships within tritrophic systems anchored by forest trees. Nitrogen isotope ratios in eight tritrophic systems with relevance to Western forests will be determined. In the three most important systems, inoculations will also be performed to determine whether the putative hyperparasite reduces fitness of the parasite. Two ditrophic systems will also be considered for comparative purposes. Applicants should be able to start by fall 2000, and ideally would have had coursework in Forest Pathology, Mycology and Plant Physiology. Research would involve field collections in Northwest forests and inoculation studies in addition to the isotope work. To apply, please contact by email before May 15th: Dr. George Newcombe, Department of Forest Resources, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho 83844-1133. Tel.: (208) 885-5289. Fax: (208) 885-6226. Email: georgen@uidaho.edu. Posted: 5/3/00.

University of Idaho: The Department of Forest Resources offers a three year doctoral research assistantship in forest science, available June 2000. Appropriate qualifications may be an MS in statistics, forest biometrics, remote sensing, forest physiology, or quantitative ecology. Ideally, the candidate should be comfortable working in an integrated environment involving quantitative thinking, spatial analysis and forest carbon budgets. Practically, we expect to recruit a person with some background knowledge, great potential and the desire to work in an integrated and dynamic team environment. Project summary: Physiological models of forest processes are seldom linked to the empirical models that are used for natural resource management decisions. This study aims to link these diverse modeling paradigms using mensurational and physiological data to assess physiological models. Goals of the study are 1) to assess the feasibility of running process models for forest stands in northern Idaho using remotely sensed data, 2) to assess the impact of measuring input variables at different spatial scales and with different measurement tools, and 3) to assess model performance using physiological and forest productivity data. The physiological model, yet to be identified, will be run using climate data dating back to 1912 at the Priest River Experimental Forest in northern Idaho. Its production estimates will be compared with mensurational data from permanent plots dating back to the 1930's and predictions of forest growth from an empirical model, the Forest Vegetation Simulator. In addition, model estimates of leaf area index (LAI) will be compared with remotely sensed data from the early 1970's to the present. Finally, model predictions of physiological states and rates will be compared with field measurements during the study period. These rigorous, independent tests of model performance should provide excellent training in the parameterization and testing of forest process models. We hope that this project will lead to the development of long-term research focus in this area at the University of Idaho. The P.I.'s are committed to work closely with the candidate throughout the study to help ensure the success of the candidate and of the project. Principal Investigators are Dr. Andrew Robinson, assistant professor in forest mensuration (andrewr@uidaho.edu), Dr. Paul Gessler, assistant professor in remote sensing (paulg@uidaho.edu), and Dr. John Marshall, associate professor in forest physiology (jdm@uidaho.edu). The University of Idaho is in Moscow, Idaho, in the Palouse. The university has a web site: http://www.uidaho.edu, as does the town: http://www.moscow.com. Interested persons should submit a letter of application, vitae, official university transcripts and the names and addresses of three professional references before January 15, 2000 to any of the persons above at: Department of Forest Resources, University of Idaho, Moscow ID 83843, Phone: 208-885-7952.

University of Idaho: The Department of Forest Resources offers a three-year research assistantship in forest science, available June 2000. Appropriate qualifications would be experience or training in some aspect of forest physiology and a B.S. or M.S. degree in Forestry, Botany, Biology, or a related field. Because this project is part of a series of related projects at the University of Idaho, ability to collaborate would be viewed favorably. Project summary: The proposed research will investigate the physiological causes of documented increases in stemwood production resulting from fertilization in the Interior Northwest. In this region, multiple nutrient deficiencies are often superimposed on late summer water stress. Such combinations of stresses are expected to reduce stemwood production both by reducing total photosynthesis and shifting photosynthate allocation away from stemwood. The proposed research would include: 1) extensive measurements of key carbon-budget parameters replicated over fifteen sites around the region, and 2) parameterization of an ecosystem process model for the fifteen sites. This work builds upon our recent analyses of the ecosystem carbon budget of stands based on estimates of photosynthetic gas exchange, respiration of leaves, branches, stems, and soils, and canopy size and production. This research will test our understanding of the growth of forests in the Interior Northwest, will provide a means of comparing the results of process models and traditional growth and yield models, and may lead to the development of efficient, broadly applicable means of predicting fertilization responses based on underlying physiological processes. Principal Investigators are Dr. John Marshall, associate professor in forest physiology (jdm@uidaho.edu) and Dr. James A. Moore, professor of silviculture and director of the Intermountain Forest Tree Nutrition Cooperative. The University of Idaho is in Moscow, Idaho, in the rolling hills of the Palouse. The university has a web site: http://www.uidaho.edu, as does the town: http://www.moscow.com. Interested persons should submit a letter of application, vitae, official university transcripts and the names and addresses of three professional references before March 15, 2000 to Dr. Marshall at: Department of Forest Resources, University of Idaho, Moscow ID 83843, Phone: 208-885-6695. Posted: 1/20/00.

University of Illinois: Graduate Research Assistantships in Stream Ecology at the University of Illinois and the Center for Aquatic Ecology, Illinois Natural History Survey (http://www.inhs.uiuc.edu/cae/) for students wishing to pursue a M.S. or Ph.D. Specific areas where support is available include: 1) Community ecology, conservation biology, or behavioral ecology of aquatic insects. Work to compliment ongoing studies of life history, behavior, and ecology of the federally-listed endangered Hines Emerald Dragonfly (Somatochlora hineana), as well as ongoing research on multiple-predator and predator-prey interactions. Contact Dr. Daniel Soluk (dsoluk@uiuc.edu). 2) Stream ecosystem ecology, especially spatial and temporal dynamics of recovery in agriculturally impacted streams, as well as the role of biotic and abiotic factors controlling nutrient cycling in streams. Contact Dr. Jennifer Tank (jtank@uiuc.edu). Degree options are available at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, either through Dept. of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (http://www.nres.uiuc.edu/), the Dept. of Ecology, Ethology, and Evolution (http://www.life.uiuc.edu/eee/), or the new Program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (http://www.life.uiuc.edu/sib/).

University of Missouri-Columbia: The School of Natural Resources at the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri (USA) seeks candidates for a Ph.D. research assistantship examining soil quality and carbon and nitrogen cycling in agroforestry systems. The research will investigate the use of several native warm season grasses and native legumes in conjunction with nut-bearing trees (black walnut and pecan). The effects of these agroforestry systems on soil properties and competition for soil moisture will be compared with adjoining crop and forest land. The position will be open starting summer, 2000. Send inquiries, CV's, and transcripts to: Dr. Peter Motavalli, Department of Soil and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Missouri, 302 ABNR Bldg, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Tel No. (573) 884-3212; Fax: (573) 884-5070; motavallip@missouri.edu or Dr. Rose-Marie Muzika, Department of Forestry, University of Missouri, 203 ABNR Bldg, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Tel No. (573) 882-8835; Fax: (573) 882-1977; muzika@missouri.edu. Posted: 5/11/00.

University of Missouri-Columbia: One half-time graduate research assistant (GRA) is needed to work on a Ph. D. research project examining comparative canopy leaf area development and whole-plant photosynthesis in poplar clones being tested in the southern Midwest (U. S. A.). The GRA will be responsible for monitoring biomass productivity, canopy development, nitrogen and water relations and gas exchange in plantations established on floodplain sites previously devoted to agricultural production. QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants must have completed either a B.S. or M.S. in Forestry or a closely related field. Experience in use of instrumentation used in ecophysiological research (pressure chamber, LI-COR LI-6400 Portable Photosynthesis System, Campbell Scientific datalogging equipment) is desirable. The applicant must have good oral and written communication skills. SALARY: $12,225/year, plus tuition waiver. STARTING DATE: January 1, 2000. APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Graduate application materials and information about the Department of Forestry and the University of Missouri can be accessed at http://www.snr.missouri.edu/forestry/index.html. Alternatively, application materials may be obtained by writing to: Graduate Programs Director, Department of Forestry, School of Natural Resources, 203 Anheuser-Busch Hall, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO 65211 U.S.A. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Dr. Steve Pallardy at the above address, or by phone (573-882-3548) or email (PallardyS@missouri.edu).

University of Montana: A graduate research assistantship in forest ecology is available in the School of Forestry (http://www.forestry.umt.edu/about/) to investigate regeneration dynamics in multi-aged mixed-conifer forests of western Montana and northern Idaho. Project involvement could include examining microsite effects on seedling/sapling establishment, investigating the role of fire and competing vegetation in recruitment dynamics of uneven-aged forests, or collaborating on a mechanistic model of forest development under various multi-aged stand structures. The assistantship (preferably PhD, MS possible) will include a stipend for three years and a tuition waiver. A strong background in plant ecology, vegetation dynamics, and/or computer modeling is preferable. It is anticipated that the student would begin by January 2001. Contact John Goodburn, (goodburn@forestry.umt.edu). Posted: 5/30/00.

University of Nebraska: I am looking for graduate students interested in working on topics within ecosystem ecology, plant ecology, biological invasions, biodiversity and global change biology. Teaching assistantships and summer research support for work at Cedar Creek Natural History Area ( http://www.lter.umn.edu/) and within a FACE study (http://swan.lter.umn.edu/biocon/) are available. E-mail me if you want more information. Johannes (Jean) M.H. Knops, School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, 348 Manter Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588-0118, jknops2@unl.edu, phone: 402-472-6449, FAX: 402-472-2083.

The University of Nevada-Reno in conjunction with Desert Research Institute-Reno is accepting applications for a Ph.D. candidate with experience in the measurement of whole plant gas exchange. The successful candidate will cooperate with researchers on a project that utilizes large scale mesocosms and a single plant gas exchange system for understanding the role of plants and soils in the biogeochemical cycle of mercury at the ecosystem level. Recent research has indicated that vegetation may be very important in controlling the cycling of mercury to and from ecosystems. This project will use the state of the art EcoCELL facilities at Desert Research Institute to monitor whole ecosystem mercury flux. Ecopods, which house multiple plants, and a single plant gas exchange system will be used to understand plant-soil-mercury interactions on a smaller scale. Candidates should have a M.S. in plant biology, plant physiology or some related field. Position is available sometime after August 1, 1999 and is contingent upon funding. Salary is negotiable based on experience. Send letter of introduction, vitae, transcripts and two letters of recommendation to: Dr. Mae Sexauer Gustin, Assistant Professor, Environmental and Resource Sciences Department, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557 Email: msg@scs.unr.edu (775-784-4203).

University of Oklahoma: We seek a graduate student to develop modeling approaches to analysis and interpretation of eddy-flux measurements of net ecosystem exchange (NEE) at the Niwot forest, Colorado, and possibly at other eddy-flux sites. The duties of incumbent include (1) analysis of large date sets of carbon, water, and energy fluxes from the eddy-flux site to identify mechanisms underlying observed fluxes; (2) parameterization and validation of exited models (e.g., MAESTRA and TCS) or development of new models to estimate canopy photosynthetic carbon fluxes, plant and soil respiration; and (3) publishing research findings in peer reviewed journals. Student candidates should have interests in ecological research with quantitative training being highly desirable. This is a three-year position with a one-year renewable appointment subject to satisfactory performance. Interested applicants should submit: (a) a vitae with list of publications, (b) names and addresses of three references, (c) up to three reprints, and (d) a one-to-two page statement of experience as it relates to the position to Dr.Yiqi Luo, Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA, email: yluo@ou.edu. The positions are available on July 1, 2000. Applications will be received until the positions are filled. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include health and dental insurance, sick and annual leave, paid holidays, participation in a retirement fund, and life insurance. More information is available at http://bomi.ou.edu/faculty/luo/home.html. Posted: 5/26/00.

University of Rhode Island: Ph.D. - Research Assistantship in Animal Physiological Ecology. Department of Natural Resources Science. Project title: Phenotypic plasticity in physiological traits in relation to environmental change. A research assistantship is available at the Ph.D. level to study the metabolic basis of phenotypic plasticity in body composition and the digestive system and its ecological implications in small migratory songbirds. Primary goals of the research include (a) evaluate new nondestructive methods for measuring body composition dynamics in migrating songbirds, (b) use stable isotopes to test contemporary hypotheses about the effect of diet quality and fasting on the metabolic routing of dietary nutrients in songbirds, (c) test key assumptions about the effect of certain physiological processes on stable isotope ratios in animal tissues. This project is a planned five-year effort (starting 1 September 2000) that will include additional graduate students. Most field work will be conducted at bird-banding stations on Block Island (ca. 15 km off the mainland) and in Kingston, Rhode Island. Captive animal facilities are on the University of Rhode Island's main campus in Kingston. Stable isotope analysis will be conducted in the Light-isotope Laboratory on URI's Narragansett Bay Campus (ca. 10 miles from Kingston) at the Graduate School of Oceanography. Qualifications: Applicants must have completed an undergraduate or M.Sc. degree in animal biology or ecology, earned at least a 3.0 GPA, must have taken the GRE, and must have excellent oral and written communication skills. Field experience with songbird capture and handling, and interest in physiological ecology are required. Experience with analysis of stable isotopes using an isotope-ratio mass spectrometer highly desirable although not essential. However, experience with quantitative laboratory skills is required. Ability to work collaboratively and to supervise research assistants and undergraduates working in the field and the laboratory is also required. Stipends are approx. $15,000/yr (100% RA) and tuition is paid. Starting date may be as early as January 2001 and no later than September 2001. Working as a field assistant with current graduate students at one of the two field sites during August-December 2000 is an option. To apply submit the following: a letter stating your qualifications and research interests, a resume, college transcripts, GRE scores, and 3 letters of reference by no later than 1 July 2000 (early application is encouraged) to: Dr. Scott R. McWilliams, Dept. Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881 401-874-7531; srmcwilliams@uri.edu. Selected candidates will be asked to apply to the Graduate School of University of Rhode Island. Posted: 4/19/00.

University of Wyoming: High Arctic Graduate Research Assistantship. Carbon and water vapor flux in response to long-term warming. A graduate student assistantship is available for a highly motivated and qualified graduate student to carry out research in the Canadian High Arctic as part of a NSF-funded study of arctic plant and ecosystem responses to simulated climate change (NATEX). The focus of the project will be to quantify growing season carbon and water vapor flux of three ecosystems found in a polar oasis at Alexandra Fiord, Ellesmere Island (79°N, 76°W). There also will be opportunities for the successful applicant to pursue additional studies of interest. The project will be conducted in collaboration with Canadian colleagues who for the past 8 years have implemented simulated climate warming at this site as part of the ITEX (International Tundra Experiment). This is a superb opportunity for those that seek to develop international contacts and conduct studies in extreme environments. The most competitive applicants will be those who have: 1) demonstrated an ability to work in remote field locations under challenging conditions, 2) utilized portable photosynthesis systems, 3) published research findings and 4) are personable and able to work well independently and in a team setting. The successful candidate will be expected to qualify for admittance to the University of Wyoming Graduate School. Funding is currently available for up to three years. Please send by March 10th a letter of interest describing experiences which are relevant to the research area, copies of any published works, and the name, email address and phone number of three references to: Jeff Welker, Dept. of Renewable Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071. Please visit our web page at http://sif.uwyo.edu for further information on our research program. Posted: 2/9/00.

Utah State University: Two full time assistantships (one for a Ph.D., one for an M.S. student) are available for three years (two for M.S.) on an NSF-funded joint US/Swiss project on the ecophysiological controls of forest distribution and dynamics in the forests of Wyoming and Switzerland. The project requires arduous fieldwork in the Shoshone National Forest of Wyoming (adjacent to Yellowstone National Park), as well as work in GIS/remote sensing, spatial statistics, and simulation modelling. The Ph.D. student will be involved in all aspects of field work, and specific aspects of the analysis as suits his/her background. The Ph.D. assistantship includes a full stipend and a tuition waiver. The M.S. assistanship includes an out-of-state tuition waiver. The student will participate in the Ecology program at Utah State University, with a monthly seminar series by noted ecologists, and a broad range of ecology course work available. The student will also be expected to participate in the US/Swiss cooperative work at the Swiss Federal Institute of Forest, Snow and Landscape Research in Birmensdorf, Switzerland. Field work begins in June 2000, and the student must be available for field work this summer. Review of applications will begin January 15, 2000 for the PhD, and February 15, 2000 for the M.S. assistantship. For more information contact: Dr. David W. Roberts, Department of Forest Resources and Ecology Center, Utah State University, Logan UT 84322-5215, phone: 435 797-2416, FAX: 435 797-4040.

Utah State University: A graduate assistantship at the Ph D (preferred) or Master’s level is available at Utah State University starting in academic year 2000-2001 for graduate research on carbon and nitrogen biogeochemistry of spruce-fir forests in the Southern Appalachians. The research is part of a multi-institutional collaborative research project on the influence of global climate effects major pathways of carbon and nitrogen cycling. The student will be involved in the measurement carbon and nitrogen dynamics in the forest floor, mineral soil, and vegetation. Field research will be conducted at a small catchment in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in collaboration with personnel at the Tennessee Valley Authority. The assistantship will involve regular travel from Utah to the site in Tennessee/North Carolina and will require that the student is available for the entire summer field season at the research site. The PhD candidate will be expected to develop his/her own research thrust within the context of soil/plant interactions and their influence on carbon and nitrogen biogeochemistry. Graduate stipend will be commensurate to entry level into the program and comes with a waiver of out-of-state tuition. PhD candidates will also a have the in-state portion of tuition waived. Students can apply for entry into the graduate program at Utah State University in Fall semester 2000 or Spring semester 2001, through the following programs at the College of Natural Resources: Watershed Science Program (http://www.usu.edu/~cnr/watershed/waterhme.htm), Ecology Program (http://www.cnr.usu.edu/ecology), Forestry program (http://www.cnr.usu.edu/forestry/index.htm). Interested students should inquire with: Dr. Helga Van Miegroet at helgavm@cc.usu.edu. Posted: 6/7/00.