Postdoctoral Associate for Amazon Forest Tree Carbon Metabolism Experiment

Two years with an anticipated start date of September 2010 (flexible)

Project description
The Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to assist in leading a large-scale ecophysiological experiment in old-growth Amazon forests.  The manipulative experiment will explore changes in individual tree carbon metabolism in response to competitive release following tree mortality disturbance. The experiment will utilize a variety of measurements associated with photosynthesis and respiration, plant carbon allocation, carbohydrate storage, transpiration, and the isotopic fractionation of carbon and oxygen.

Requirements
The position will require residing near the study site in the Amazon, mentoring South American students, and language proficiency (or clear ability to become proficient) in Portuguese and/or Spanish. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in ecological or plant sciences, or a related discipline.

Highly motivated individuals with a strong background in plant physiology and ecosystem ecology, and the potential for a strong publication record, are encouraged to apply.

Payment
Salary follows the rules of the German public service or is granted as scholarship on a case basis.

Application
Applicants should send an email with a cover letter, CV, statement of research interests, and names and contact information for three referees, to Dr. Susan Trumbore at trumbore@bgc-jena.mpg.de. Review of applications will begin in May 2010.

The Max-Plank-Society seeks to increase the number of female scientists and encourages them to apply.

The Max Planck Society is committed to employing more handicapped individuals and especially encourages them to apply.