PhD in post-fire Forest Ecology

A Ph.D. level graduate research assistantship is available in the
Department of Forest Science at Oregon State University starting January
2008.

We seek a highly motivated student to examine the role of nitrogen fixing
shrubs in post-wildfire recovery of Douglas-fir forests of Northern
California and Southern Oregon. Specific planned research objectives are
to measure shrub nitrogen fixation rates in the field using stable 15N
isotope techniques, to evaluate soil resource limitation to nitrogen
fixation, and to determine the influence of fixed nitrogen on post-fire
plant community dynamics. The successful applicant also has freedom to
develop related questions in post-fire plant ecology, biogeochemistry, and
forest restoration.

Prospective applicants should have an M.S. degree with demonstrated
background in ecology, biogeochemistry and/or soils. The assistantship
carries a competitive stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance for a
period of 3 to 4 years. A start date of January 2008 is strongly
preferred, but applicants for later dates are encouraged to apply.

Oregon State University is recognized as a leader in the ecological
sciences, with a world-class program in Forest Science
(http://www.cof.orst.edu). Advisors for this research are Steven Perakis
(Courtesy Professor, soils and biogeochemistry) and David Hibbs (Professor,
plant ecology). Please contact Steve with questions, or submit a CV
(including research experience, grades, GRE), a letter outlining your
interests and goals, and reference contact information via email or written
to the USGS address below.

Steven S. Perakis
US Geological Survey
Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center
3200 SW Jefferson Way
Corvallis, OR 97331

tel: (541) 758-8786
email: steven.perakis@oregonstate.edu
web: http://fresc.usgs.gov/staff/perakis/