Job Announcement: Research Scientist (Post-doctoral) GS-0404-11 Reply Due: November 20, 2014
The USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station (PSW) is advertising for a Post-Doctoral Research Scientist based at the USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry office in Hilo, Hawaii.
A postdoctoral research position is available for an individual interested in melding plant functional trait theory, restoration planning, ecosystem services, and computer modeling. The experimental study already underway tests four different treatment combinations (species mixtures) for tropical lowland wet forest restoration based on species’ functional traits. Management efforts to return to pre-historic states have not been effective and the current experiment involves a mix of native and non-native species. The goal of the postdoctoral position is to apply functional ecology and ecosystem service concepts, including modeling, to determine the efficacy of the treatments in providing ecosystem services, especially carbon storage and invasion resistance. Strong computer skills are a must as the position involves developing and programming two computer models: 1) a model to help managers determine appropriate species for restoration using information about species’ functional traits, and 2) applying biodiversity and ecosystem-level data being collected on tree growth, litterfall, soils, and regeneration into quantitative ecosystem service assessments.
The successful candidate will work closely with project investigators Dr. Rebecca Ostertag, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Dr. Susan Cordell, USDA-FS, PSW-Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, and Dr. Peter Vitousek, Stanford University. In addition the candidate will supervise and/or mentor field technicians, graduate and undergraduate research assistants, as needed. Responsibilities will include conceiving and implementing the ecosystem services assessment, which will yield publications, databases, and models; and organizing a workshop for model end-users. Development of additional areas of interest that conform with the scope of the research project will be encouraged.
Funding is available for 2 years. A Ph.D. in Ecology, Forestry, Ecological Economics, or equivalent is required. Technical skills desired include: Strong quantitative skills in multivariate statistics, computing, and GIS, expertise in data management and databases; and an intimate understanding of ecosystem services theory and practice, and an ability to apply information towards plant functional trait theory and restoration. Postdoc will assist with field work when needed so good physical stamina for extended hours of field work under hot and sunny (or cool and rainy) conditions is a must.
If you are interested in this position…please contact Susan Cordell of the USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station at: scordell01@fs.fed.us or Becky Ostertag of the University of Hawaii at Hilo at: ostertag@hawaii.edu no later than November 20, 2014.
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