Deadline: December 15, 2022.
A PhD student position with 4 years of funding is available to participate in an NSF-funded project examining the interaction of multiple climate change forcings on vegetation and ecosystem functioning in Arctic wetlands through field and laboratory research. Field work is conducted in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta in Alaska and will involve an experiment with flooding, warming, and herbivory treatments followed by measurements of vegetation responses, and CO2 and CH4 gas fluxes. The successful candidate must start no later than 1 May 2023 (although 1 April 2023 is preferred), and be willing to work 3 months each summer (number of field seasons is contingent on project development) in an extremely remote setting in western Alaska (e.g., no internet service, no running water). This work is a collaboration between faculty at South Dakota State University, the University of Colorado-Denver and Utah State University, and the student would interact with personnel from each location. The successful candidate will receive a tuition waiver; a 12-month stipend ($24,000/yr); and room, board and travel expenses during the summer field seasons.
Required Qualifications: (1) A BS/BA degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or related field by December 2022; (2) strong academic record including previous research experience; (3) quantitative skills including introductory R; (4) excellent written and oral communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications: (1) Prior experience conducting field research in or living in remote settings for extended periods; (2) experience with ATVs and small craft boats: (3) experience in plant identification; (4) experience with LICOR or other gas exchange systems; (5) MS degree preferred.
Utah State University is a highly selective, public, land-grant university and is classified as a Carnegie R1 Research University. The main campus is located in Logan, a community of 100,000 people. The Beard Lab is committed to supporting and advancing diversity in STEM. Applications from members of historically underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged.
To apply, please send a single PDF with (1) CV; (2) a letter describing how you meet the required qualifications and any preferred qualifications, research interest, and career goals; (3) unofficial transcripts; and (4) contact information for three professional references to Karen Beard (karen.beard@usu.edu). Application deadline is December 15, 2022.
