Offene Stelle: Wissenschaftler/in für KLIMOPASS-Projekt
The Chair of Silviculture offers a temporary research position in the project
“Can the drought tolerance of Norway spruce and European beech be increased by liming?”
The position is anticipated to start in March 2017 and will run for 18 months, pending on finalization of contracts with the funding agency. The project is funded by the State of Baden-Württemberg (Landesanstalt für Umwelt, Messungen und Naturschutz) (KLIMOPASS), The position will be at the Chair of Silviculture, Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources at Freiburg University (www.waldbau.org). Payment is according to the German standard tariff (75 % TVL 13).
Project description:
The main goal of liming is to buffer man-made acidification of forest soils and restoration of soil functions. Liming of forest soils can improve nutrient supply, decomposition of organic matter, organic matter content in mineral soil as well as promoting fine-root growth. These effects of liming may increase the drought tolerance of trees, if they lead to more extensive and deeper root systems. However, this has not been investigated yet. Therefore, this research project will analyze the short- to long-term impact of repeated liming on drought tolerance of Norway spruce and European beech over a time period of more than 30 years using dendroecological approaches. Specifically, we will investigate the influence of liming on the radial growth response during and after drought years. For this purpose, the liming experiment network of our cooperation partner, the FVA Baden-Württemberg will be used. This project will provide evidence whether or not liming can increase the drought tolerance of these tree species.
Candidate profile:
We are looking for a highly motivated and cooperative person with an MSc or equivalent degree in Forest Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Soil Science, Plant Ecology, or related areas. Applicants should have a background in nutrient cycling, forest ecology and/or dendrochronology. The applicant should be able to independently plan and undertake sampling of tree cores and/or stem discs in the field. Furthermore, the candidate will be responsible to liaise with our collaborator (FVA Baden-Württemberg). The applicant should be able to process samples in an accurate and strictly reproducible manner. Good statistical background and experience with appropriate software is expected. Project reports have to be written in German, other publications in English. A valid driving license is required. If desired, the project results may be used to develop a doctoral thesis.
The University of Freiburg aims to increase the proportion of women in academic positions and therefore welcomes in particular applications by females. Disabled persons with equal qualifications will be preferably employed. Applications must include a motivation letter, CV, copies of certificates, copies of publications or a thesis, and names and contact details of two academic referees. Please submit applications until the 29. January 2017 as a single PDF file to martin.kohler@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de
Further information:
Prof. Dr. J. Bauhus (Tel. +49 761-203-3678, e-mail: juergen.bauhus@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de ) or
Dr. M. Kohler (Tel. +49 761-203-3673, e-mail: martin.kohler@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de).