We seek a sincere, motivated, and creative individual to apply for an exciting PhD assistantship in Forest Ecosystem Dynamics at Washington State University. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Arjan Meddens to examine the spatial and temporal patterns of ecosystem dynamics across the western United States. You will work on highly relevant research which aims to improve ecosystem resilience to future disturbances across the larger landscape under rapidly changing climate conditions. Research topics of interest include: (1) the dynamics of fire refugia and utilization of fire refugia by plant or animal species, (2) spatial and temporal patterns of bark beetle outbreaks, and/or (3) the utilization of high-resolution (UAV) lidar applications for forest measurements. A genuine interest in teaching is required and an interest in natural resource management applications is highly desired. Two-year RA funding is available with more funding possible in year 3 and 4 of the Ph.D. The successful candidate will be housed in the School of the Environment at Washington State University, which has great collaborative faculty with expertise in both the social and biophysical sciences.
Requirements: Good interpersonal skills as wells as strong quantitative background – as demonstrated by courses taken, programming skills, and GRE scores. Field experience and a well-rounded educational background in ecology, geography, fire science, natural resource management and an active interest in teaching is desired. In addition, a candidate with an FFA drone pilot license or an interest in obtaining one would be preferred. The position will begin as soon as a successful candidate is identified, with start of coursework either in the 2020 Spring or Fall semesters. Annual compensation package is competitive and depends upon experience. If you like to be considered for the position, please send a letter of interest and a CV to Dr. Arjan Meddens (arjan.meddens@wsu.edu).
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Arjan Meddens PhD
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Assistant Professor in Forest Ecology
School of the Environment
Washington State University
PO Box 642812
Pullman, WA 99164-2812
Office: TROY 324
Phone: 509-335-8570
Email: arjan.meddens@wsu.edu