MS/PhD Opportunities in Soil Ecology/Biogeochemistry, Department of Ecosystems & Conservation, University of Montana, Missoula, MT

Graduate student assistantships: Graduate assistantships are available to students interested in investigating soil ecology and/or soil biogeochemical cycling at the University of Montana in Missoula. Students will be encouraged to contribute to ongoing research in tropical rain forest ecosystems, including i) the effects of global environmental change on soil carbon cycling, nutrient cycling and ecosystem processes, ii) links between microbial community structure and soil biogeochemical processes; or iii) links between aboveground and belowground diversity and processes. In addition, motivated students interested in developing dissertation or thesis research projects in western temperate/alpine ecosystems, or students with prior experience using molecular microbiological techniques are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants should have a strong record of academic excellence, prior field and/or laboratory experience, and a demonstrated interest in soils or ecosystems research. Student support will include a combination of teaching/research assistantships, a stipend ($10,000/year for MS students; $15,000/year for PhD candidates) and a tuition waiver. Positions will begin in the fall of 2008.

To apply: Please email the following application materials (as one document) to Dr. Cory Cleveland at cory.cleveland@umontana.edu: 1) a current resume or CV, including GPA and test scores (if available); 2) a letter of interest, including research interests, professional goals and prior experience; and 3) contact information, including Email addresses, of three potential references.

For more information: For more information about Dr. Cleveland's research, please see: http://ibl.colorado.edu/IBL_research.html. For information on the College of Forestry & Conservation at the University of Montana, please see: http://www.forestry.umt.edu/