Deadline: Fri, 04/01/2022 - 12:00pm Employer: University of Missouri Job Field: Forestry Job Type: Assistantship Location: Missouri Location Detail: Columbia Job Description: There is increasing scientific evidence that multiple pollinating species, including wild bees, are declining in range or abundance in the Midwestern US. Although many studies link pesticide use, climate change, and disease to population reductions, habitat loss may be the most significant factor, with declines in pollinator abundance paralleling reductions in the plants they rely on. With increases in the pace and scale of active forest management, log landings resulting from timber harvest may offer the opportunity to provide ephemeral pollinator habitat. However, successful outcomes are hampered by soil compaction and fertility, erosion, residual mulch and logging debris, limited germination and growth of seeded species, and competition from invasive species. Soil remediation and biochar as a soil amendment coupled with enrichment plantings could increase success. The Pollinator Habitat in Log Landings (PHiLL) project seeks to address issues of soil compaction and other site characteristics hampering the development of floral resources for native bees on log-landings. A Master of Science Research Assistantship is available with Dr. Ben Knapp (Associate Professor of Silviculture, University of Missouri). The successful applicant will evaluate plant community responses to treatments that aim to promote pollinator habitat by reducing soil compaction and improving soil quality on log landings in three midwestern National Forests including the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri, the Shawnee National Forest in Illinois, and the Hoosier National Forest in Indiana. This project is part of a large and diverse collaboration of managers and researchers including the US Forest Service National Forest System and Research & Development, the University of Missouri, and the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. To learn more about the PHiLL project, please visit: https://proxy.qualtrics.com/proxy/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nrs.fs.fed.us%… Qualifications: Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Sciences/Studies, Forestry, Ecology, or a related field. Applicants must have a strong desire to work in the field and are expected to publish their research findings in peer-reviewed journals. Previous experience with plant/tree identification, research, data analysis, and data management skills are preferred. The student must possess a valid driver's license. Training in identifying midwestern flora will be provided. Miscellaneous: Equal Employment Opportunity Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy shall not be interpreted in such a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or the recruiting rights of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces or the Department of Homeland Security of the United States of America. For more information, call the Vice Chancellor of Human Resource Services/Affirmative Action officer at 573-882-4256 Salary: $23,000/year Benefits: Financial support is available for two years, starting in May/June 2022, and includes a stipend ($23,000 per year) and tuition support. How to Apply: To apply, please submit the following to Dr. Benjamin Knapp (knappb@missouri.edu) by April 1, 2022: 1) personal statement of career goals 2) resume or curriculum vitae 3) transcripts 4) contact information for three references Information about University of Missouri School of Natural Resources graduate program can be found at https://proxy.qualtrics.com/proxy/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fsnr.missouri.edu%2….
