The Chair of Silviculture invites applications for a 3-yr doctoral position focusing on silvicultural adaption options to climate extremes
Project description:
Increasing tree mortality owing to climatic extreme events calls for adaptation strategies to maintain the resilience and performance of forest ecosystems. The establishment and promotion of mixed-species stands and the control of stand density through thinning are possible silvicultural adaptation options. Therefore, we will investigate the influence of both tree species diversity and thinning on canopy and growth responses of trees to drought. We use the oldest and largest tree species diversity experiment in Central Europe (BIOTREE, see https://treedivnet.ugent.be/experiments/BIOTREE.html) in Germany, which allows a causal analysis of the mechanisms of potential influences of tree species diversity in combination with thinning interventions. The results of this project have direct practical relevance for the establishment, adaptation and treatment of mixed-species forests under cli-mate change. In the frame of the project, the doctoral researcher will investigate changes in the microclimate in thinned stands and the response of trees in the canopy space to the combined influence of these micro-climatic changes and increased growing space.
Specifically, he/she will:
Candidate profile:
We are looking for a highly motivated and cooperative person with a strong background in forest ecology, silviculture, ecophysiology, or related fields. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated his/her ability to successfully carry out fieldwork, analyse datasets and conduct research projects through an excellent master thesis. The applicant should be able to work independently and in a team, coordinate work with partners and undertake field work in Thuringia. Experience with statistics and R, and the analysis of datasets are desirable. Strong command of English is indispensable. For international candidates, knowledge of German (or a willingness to learn) would be beneficial to enhance the experience of living and working in Germany.
We offer an inspirational and welcoming work environment in a highly dynamic and successful research group. The salary will be determined in accordance with E13 TV-L. A starting date in March 2025 is anticipated. The University of Freiburg is an equal opportunity employer and encourages women to apply. For international candidates, the University of Freiburg offers support with the logistics of relocating to Germany (http://www.welcomecenter.uni-freiburg.de).
Founded in 1457, the University of Freiburg is one of the oldest German universities and now one of the nation’s leading research and teaching institutions. Freiburg is a vibrant city at the foot of the Black Forest in close vicinity to France and Switzerland, with a rich cultural and academic life and excellent recreational opportunities.
Your application will consist of a letter of motivation, a CV, publications (if available), academic transcripts (non-official copies are initially acceptable), and contact details of at least two aca-demic referees.
Questions regarding the contents of the project can be discussed with Prof. Jürgen Bauhus (juergen.bauhus@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de) or Dr. Florian Schnabel (florian.schnabel@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de).
We will be particularly pleased to receive applications from women for the position advertised here.
Please send your application in English including supporting documents mentioned above citing the reference number 00003971, by 15. October 2024 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:
Universität Freiburg Professur für Waldbau Stefan-Meier-Straße 76 79104 Freiburg E-Mail (please one single PDF): ursula.eggert@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de
For further information, please contact Prof.Dr. Jürgen Bauhus on the phone number +49 761 203-3677 or E-Mail juergen.bauhus@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de.