This is an update to a previous posting on March 25, 2011. Project Description: Tropical forest ecosystems have been found to be undergoing widespread changes. Of particular concern is the increasing dominance of lianas (woody climbing vines). I am investigating whether increasing CO2 is a viable explanation for increasing liana dominance and, if so, through what mechanism CO2 favors lianas over trees. The study is being conducted at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) in Panama. Liana and tree species are growing in open-top plant growth chambers and exposed to elevated levels of CO2.
Position Description: Research assistants will have the opportunity to work closely with a PhD student to carry out a major research project. You will learn the design and operation of an elevated CO2 growth chamber array, including instrumentation to measure CO2 levels and the photosynthetic activity of plants. Other duties may include plant identification and collection, caring for seedlings, and measurement of plant traits. This is a volunteer position intended for persons looking to gain field and research experience. Partial reimbursements for travel may be available depending on the circumstances. Qualifications: Ability to work long days in the field under tropical conditions (intense heat, rain, sun, biting/stinging insects), and a basic understanding of biology and/or ecology. Spanish language proficiency is preferred but not required. Positions start immediately and will run to mid-June. Please send short cover letter (including earliest start date) and resume (with references) to Dave Marvin ([email protected]) or visit http://www-personal.umich.edu/~marvs/ for more information. Applications accepted until May 1st.
