Dr. Simon Bilodeau Gauthier
Guest Scientist / Postdoctoral Researcher
79085 Freiburg im Breisgau
Tel. 0761/203-8628
Fax 0761/203-3781
⇒ Homepage at Centre for Forest Research (Québec, Canada)
Research Projects
- Mechanisms of tree diversity effects on ecosystem functioning (IDENT-Freiburg)
- Functional significance of forest biodiversity in European (FunDivEurope) www.fundiveurope.eu/
**** Master Thesis available for 2012 ! ****
Topic: „Fine root biomass production and functional diversity of European forests“
Background:
Keywords:
- Functional biodiversity
- Tree species richness
- Ecosystems functions & services
- European forest types
- Belowground processes
- Root growth & interactions
- Utilisation of soil resources & nutrient cycling
- Sustainable forestry
Key references:
- Scherer-Lorenzen et al. 2005, Springer
- Nadrowski et al. 2010, Curr. Opin. Enviro. Sust. 2
- Zeugin et al. 2010, For. Eco. Man. 260
Objective:
Assess the production of fine root biomass in relation to soil depth, within mixtures of 1- to 5-tree species in six different types of mature forests in Europe.
Research Questions:
- How does fine root biomass production vary between different levels of tree species richness?
- What is the vertical distribution pattern of tree fine roots? How does it compare between species? Is it affected by levels of species richness?
- What is the effect of forest ecosystem types on fine root biomass production?
- Could species richness increase fine root production through complementary use of soil resources?
Tasks:
In the field:
- Collect soil + root cores from the study plots in different parts of Europe.
In the lab:
- Separate soil from fine roots in preparation for analyses.
- Wash, dry, and weigh fine roots.
In the office:
- Compile and analyse data on fine root biomass per soil depth, for the different species mixtures.
- Possibility of collaborating on scientific manuscripts.
Requirements:
- Willingness to work in the field. (Travel and accommodation expenses are covered.)
- Patience and attention to details.
- Good knowledge of English.
For questions or to manifest your interest:
Simon Bilodeau-Gauthier, Room 4088, simon.gauthier@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de
Jürgen Bauhus, juergen.bauhus@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de