Welcome the Forest Ecosystem Dynamics Lab at Washington State University! We are a team of researchers that work on questions related to ecosystem dynamics. We aim to further the understanding of ecological processes related to terrestrial ecosystems at local to global scales under global change. Our research focuses on forest and rangeland ecology, remote sensing, carbon cycling, and forest disturbances. We use satellite and other geospatial data for assessing forest dynamics and aim to both provide tools for professionals to improve management of our natural resources as well as to advance scientific knowledge about fundamental ecological processes. This new lab group is led by Arjan Meddens, who started as an Assistant Professor at WSU in the Summer of 2019.
We seek a sincere, motivated, and creative individual to apply for an exciting PhD assistantship in the Forest Ecosystem Dynamics lab at Washington State University. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Arjan Meddens and lab members to examine 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.
Possible research topics of interest include: (1) the dynamics of fire refugia and utilization of fire refugia by specific plant or animal species, (2) spatial and temporal patterns of bark beetle outbreaks, and/or (3) the utilization of high-resolution lidar applications for forest measurements.
Qualifications: A genuine interest in teaching is required and an interest in natural resource management applications is highly desired. Three-year TA funding is available with additional research funding possible in during the PhD. 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 and programming skills.
Field experience and a well-rounded educational background in ecology, geography, fire science, natural resource management and an active interest in teaching is desired. Experience in computer programming (e.g., R-programming) and geospatial software packages (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) is preferred. In addition, a candidate with an FAA drone pilot license or an interest in obtaining one would be helpful. The position will begin at the beginning of the Fall 2023 semester (Approximately Aug. 15, 2023). Annual compensation package is competitive and depends upon experience.
How to apply:
If you like to be considered for the position, please send a letter of interest, a CV, info on 3 references, and (unofficial) transcripts of courses taken to: Dr. Arjan Meddens (arjan.meddens@wsu.edu) by January 15th.
Contact Phone 509-335-8570
Start Date 08/15/2023
Last Date to Apply 01/15/2023