The Wilson Agroecology Lab at the University of Florida seeks motivated PhD applicants to work on interdisciplinary projects at the interface of stress ecophysiology, ecosystem ecology, and agricultural management. In collaboration with the Center for Stress Resilient Agriculture (CSRA), as well as faculty inside and outside of UF, we are tackling basic and applied research questions aimed at agroecosystem mitigation of and adaptation to climate change. Ongoing lab projects include the use of stable isotope biogeochemistry to test mechanisms regulating soil organic matter in agroecosystems, the quantification of plant traits conferring stress resilience and productivity in both row crops and pasture, and development of hierarchical statistical approaches to improve our ability to forecast agroecosystem responses to changes in climate and/or management. Additional research combines field data with satellite remote sensing to inform land management in pastures and in reforesting landscapes.
Minimal qualifications: • M.S. or equivalent in related field • Field experience in ecosystem ecology, agronomy, and/or ecophysiology • Basic competency in data management and analysis (e.g. use of Excel, R, etc.) • Demonstrated critical thinking and writing skills Preferred qualifications: • Interdisciplinary project management • Exposure to grant writing and publication process • Familiarity with stable isotope biogeochemistry (for students with strong field research interests) • Familiarity with Bayesian statistics and contemporary MCMC software (e.g. BUGS/JAGS or Stan, for students with theoretical and or quantitative interests) The Wilson Lab is committed to supporting overall professional and personal growth within the context of our excellent graduate programs, and in the maintenance of favorable work/life balance here in beautiful north central Florida. We are seeking applicants with a strong and demonstrated dedication to research, independent initiative and positive, proactive attitude. Competitive assistantship and/or fellowship funding is available. Please send a CV and statement of interest by January 1st 2019 to: Dr. Chris H. Wilson Assistant Professor – Global Change Agroecologist, Agronomy Department, University of Florida [email protected]
