The Forest Soils and Hydrology Lab in the Department of Forestry, College of Forest Resources, Mississippi State University, is seeking one or two MS level students to perform research in one of two areas:
1. Root distribution in pine-switchgrass agroforestry system. This student would work to understand the belowground competition for soil resources at in this agroforestry system used to grow a biofuel crop and timber. (link) 2. Litter chemistry controls on flammability and resulting char or black carbon quality in hardwood and pine ecosystems. This work will entail controlled burns in the lab and field as well as lab work to characterize the litters and char. Many of these analyses will take place in the Department of Forestrys fully equipped soil laboratory (link). The student will be responsible for completing course work, analyzing samples in the laboratory, data analyses, preparing progress reports, presenting results at national conferences, preparing and presenting a thesis, and preparing and submitting a manuscript(s) for publication. The student will also be expected to be involved in other projects within the Forest Soils and Hydrology Lab thereby providing them with a broad range of experience and opportunities to collaborate. MSU is located in Starkville in east-central Mississippi and has many intellectual, cultural, and recreational opportunities on and off campus. The temperate climate of Starkville allows residents to enjoy many year- round outdoor recreation options including mountain biking, road cycling, hiking, canoeing, golfing, hunting, fishing, and bird watching. Nearby venues include the John W. Starr Memorial Forest, Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), and the Tombigbee National Forest. More information on MSU and Starkville can be found at: http://www.msstate.edu/web/about_us2.php Potential Starting Dates: August 2012-January 2013 Students with a Bachelors degree in soil science, ecology, biogeochemistry, geosciences, environmental science, chemistry, biology, or other related fields are encouraged to apply. Research assistantships include a full tuition waiver, a competitive annual stipend including summer support, health insurance, and thesis research funding for two years. Application: Please send 1)copies of transcripts, 2) CV or resume, 3) contact information for 3 references and 4) your preference for either of these two options for research. Dr. Jeff Hatten Assistant Professor Forest Soils and Hydrology Lab Department of Forestry Mississippi State University MS State, MS 39762 Phone: 662-325-7481 Email: [email protected]
