Research Assistantship

Applied Plant Ecology: Assessment of Procedures for Temporary Stabilization of
Soils During Transportation Construction in Illinois.

Department of Biological Sciences, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville,
Illinois

Available beginning August 16, 2012.

Dr. Peter Minchin is inviting applications from qualified students for a
Research Assistantship in the Department of Biological Sciences, Southern
Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), Illinois, starting August 16, 2012.
The successful applicant would be expected to enroll in the SIUE Graduate
School and commence a Master of Science degree under Dr. Minchin's direction in
fall, 2012.  Applicants should have completed a Bachelor's degree in biology,
environmental science or a related field and be interested in undertaking a two-
year Master's project in the general area of applied plant ecology.  My lab
focuses on applied community ecology, particularly the conservation and
restoration of plant communities (http://www.siue.edu/~pminchi/).  The
applicant would work on an existing project funded by the Illinois Center for
Transportation, the aim of which is to assess plant species and site
preparation methods for the temporary stabilization of soils during
transportation construction in Illinois.  Field experiments will be performed
at four sites in Illinois and will involve several days of travel each month to
set up plantings and collect data.  The successful applicant must be prepared
to undertake both physical work in the field as well as data preparation and
analysis in the lab.  A driver's license is essential and skills in data
management and statistical analysis are highly desirable.  The RA includes a
monthly stipend and a full tuition waiver for 24 months.  Funds are also
available to cover travel during field trips.  SIUE is situated on a beautiful
2,600 acre campus and is only 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis.

Applicants should submit a letter of interest, Curriculum Vitae, transcripts
and three professional references to: Dr. Peter Minchin (pminchi@siue.edu),
Department of Biological Sciences, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville,
PO Box 1651, Edwardsville, IL 62026.  GRE scores may also be submitted but are
not required.  Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until
filled.
Position number: GS13-2032