Doctoral assistantship in ecosystem dynamics of vernal pool ecosystems in Maine
Graduate Assistantship: There will be a new Ph.D. post available beginning January 2014 in the Ecology
and Environmental Sciences Program at the University of Maine. The candidate will participate in studies
of the impacts of land use change on the community structure and ecosystem dynamics of vernal pool
ecosystems in Maine. Specifically, this person will work with Aram Calhoun and Krista Capps to study
linkages between community ecology and biogeochemical processes in vernal pool ecosystems. This
assistantship will be one of several positions that will be advertised as part of a Dynamics of Coupled
Natural and Human Systems project that project brings together a team of ecologists and economists
from multiple sub-disciplines and institutions to address two overarching goals: (1) explore the
biophysical and socioeconomic components of vernal pools, as a coupled systems model for
management of small natural features in larger landscapes, and (2) improve strategies for conserving
vernal pools and other small natural features with large ecological significance. The student will have
flexibility to design his or her own research question within the scope of the larger project. We seek
individuals interested in freshwater ecology and biogeochemistry who are excited to learn and work
within an interdisciplinary team of researchers.
Support includes an assistantship stipend, a tuition waiver, subsidy for health insurance, and funds for
field research.
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications: The candidate must have a B.S. in ecology, aquatic science, environmental
science, or closely related field. The candidate must be interested in conducting research in applied
biogeochemistry and have substantial experience working in the field. Excellent GPA and GRE scores and
an interest in collaborative, multi-disciplinary approaches to problem solving are also required.
Preferred Qualifications: The preferred candidate will have an M.S. in an environmental field, experience
using GIS, experience working within teams in field-based projects. Experience conducting research in
aquatic biogeochemistry is also preferred, but is not necessary.
Start Date: Position available starting January 2014, but the start date is negotiable.
To Apply: Please send the following information as electronic files to krista.capps@maine.edu. Please
include CNH PhD Position in the subject heading. Please attach all documents as Word documents or
PDFs with the last name of the candidate included as part of all of the file names. Review of applications
will begin immediately and will continue until a suitable applicant is found for the position.
(1) A letter of application and statement of research interests and background
(2) Resume or curriculum vitae
(3) Unofficial copies of GRE scores and all post-secondary transcripts (official copies will be required
before the candidate is offered the position)
(4) Contact information (name, affiliation, email address, phone number) for three professional
references
Application Procedures:
Review of materials will begin in mid-late October and continue until the position is filled.