We are seeking a motivated student with interests in restoration ecology and plant community dynamics for a graduate assistantship (MS level) at the University of Wyoming.
Geomorphic reclamation is an alternative to traditional land reclamation to rebuild post-mine topography and improve landscape stability. The student will conduct vegetation monitoring and soil sampling in a comparative study of geomorphic and traditional reclamation sites in sage-steppe systems. The primary focus of the project is the study of plant species diversity and vegetation patterns at local and regional scales, including field monitoring and remote sensing imagery. The student will also characterize soil parameters for comparisons of community diversity and soil heterogeneity among reclamation sites. Vegetation monitoring will follow established protocols for characterization of wildlife habitat, with an emphasis on habitat requirements for greater sage grouse. The student will be enrolled in the Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management degree program in the department of Ecosystem Science and Management. Funding includes an annual stipend, tuition and fees, and health insurance. Candidates should send an email describing their interests and background to Dr. Kristina Hufford ([email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>), including a current resume, GRE scores, and contact information for 2-3 references. Applicants must possess a valid U.S. driver's license and a sense of adventure. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start is late August with some flexibility for arrival in fall. The University of Wyoming is located in Laramie, a town of 30,000 in the heart of the Rocky Mountain West. Laramie has more than 200 days of sunshine a year and near year-round outdoor activities that include skiing, hiking, camping, bicycling, fishing and climbing. Laramie is close to Cheyenne, Wyoming and many of Colorado's major cities and university communities (Fort Collins: 1 hour; Boulder: 1.5 hours; Denver: 2 hours).
