Seeking two highly motivated field assistants for a project
that examines the effects of climate change on the carbon balance of west
Greenland during the summer of 2012. Applicants will be working primarily
with myself (Sean Cahoon, PhD Candidate, Penn State University) and loosely
involved with other graduate students studying the ecology of climate change
in the Arctic.
Major goals of the project include: (1) monitoring above- and belowground
plant productivity in response to experimental warming, (2) quantifying root
respiration and leaf-level photosynthesis in several plant communities and
(3) detecting the physiological and phenological drivers of ecosystem CO2
exchange in the Arctic.
A typical day in the field consists of conducting ecosystem or plant CO2
flux measurements, collecting soil temperature and moisture data, stem and
root growth measurements, vegetation reflectance, or data entry.
Applicants must come prepared for many weeks of camping in the field and
ready for all types of weather. The positions are not paid, however
transportation from the US to Greenland and partial food expenses will be
provided. I am looking for a 3-month commitment (mid May through mid
August), however some flexibility is possible.
Prior experience is not required, however qualified students must excel in
their academic pursuits and exhibit a strong desire for a truly hands-on
experience.
Please send resumes or further questions to Sean Cahoon (sxc5218@psu.edu)