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PhD position in coastal ecosystem ecology:

Metrics of ecosystem structure and function in coastal habitats for conservation planning (part of CHONe II - Canada’s Healthy Oceans Network)

Description: Coastal ecosystems and their complex habitats (e.g., seagrass, rockweed beds) are essential for the provision of ecosystem services. Coastal habitats are also highly impacted by cumulative human activities, and interventions are critical to maintain their continued functions and services. This project will (1) develop ecological metrics that best describe the ecosystem status of structured coastal ecosystems, (2) assess how these metrics change across impact gradients and existing management interventions, and (3) use the metrics to identify useful indicators for management and conservation objectives. Existing comprehensive datasets and data from field sampling will be used to develop metrics based on diversity, habitat structure, trophic structure, and ecosystem functioning. Multivariate statistical techniques and modelling will be used to assess metrics across impact gradients and their usefulness to assess ecosystem status.

This project is part of the NSERC strategic network CHONe II. The successful candidate will work in the laboratories of Dr. Heike Lotze (Biology, Dalhousie University) and Dr. Melisa Wong (Bedford Institute of Oceanography). Opportunities to collaborate with other network members across Canada are anticipated. The student will be required to apply to the graduate program in Biology at Dalhousie University June or September 1 2016.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a MSc degree in biology, ecology, or related discipline. Ability and willingness to compile and analyse large datasets and to also conduct field research are required. Strong quantitative skills in computer programming (e.g., R, Python) and statistical analyses (GLMs, GAMs, PERMANOVA) are preferred. Familiarity with multivariate statistical methods appropriate for field ecology (e.g., multivariate multiple regression, canonical correspondence analysis, PCA, MDS, Cluster analysis) are an asset. Experience in population and food web models would also be beneficial.

To apply: Please contact Dr. Melisa Wong via email (melisa.wong@dfo-mpo.gc.ca) and provide a CV, contact information for 3 references, unofficial transcript, and a description of your research experience and interests. Review of applications will commence Jan. 1 2016 and continue until a suitable candidate is found.