POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

SOUTH DAKOTA CENTER FOR BIOCOMPLEXITY STUDIES
South Dakota State University
Brookings, South Dakota
Duties: Assist scientists at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) EROS Data Center with the "Quantitative Modeling of Carbon Dynamics Project." Quantify the regional effect on carbon of land use change such as conversion from cropland to grassland. Use predictions from a biogeochemical model (GEMS) and land cover trends to quantify land cover dependent carbon dynamics. Analyze, interpret, and summarize results. Write manuscripts for publication in scientific journals.
Minimum qualifications: Ph.D. in ecology, soil science, agronomy, biogeochemistry, or related science completed prior to appointment starting date. Verification of degree status will be required of finalists for the position. Excellent writing skills and experience in writing scientific articles. Effective communication and interpersonal skills required.
Desired qualifications: Knowledge of biogeochemical processes associated with carbon sources and sinks. Knowledge and experience with statistical analysis and computer modeling of biogeochemical processes. Knowledge of agricultural practices and programs (e.g., Conservation Reserve Program,
CRP) that promote conversion of cropland to grassland, and impact of disturbances on land cover change. Familiarity with Great Plains ecosystems.
Term of appointment: The position will be for one year beginning fall 2004, with the possibility of extension.
Work location: The work will be conducted primarily at the USGS EROS Data Center (EDC), near Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Project Background: Biogeochemical model (GEMS) predictions will be conducted on 10 x 10 km random sample blocks within identified ecoregions. These sample blocks are used by the EDC "Land Cover Trends" project to quantify 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s land cover. This allows quantification of land cover dependent carbon dynamics with GEMS modeling. Croplands are one class of this land cover classification. Crop types have previously been estimated stochastically in GEMS for each cell using county level agricultural statistics, but crop type maps from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) now allow quantification of potential biases of carbon quantification done with stochastic estimation of crop types.
Institutional Background: The South Dakota Center for Biocomplexity Studies
(SDCBS) was established to promote integrated research in environmental systems. The SDCBS office is located at South Dakota State University, but the Center as a whole is a collaboratory, relying on physical and intellectual infrastructure at other South Dakota Public Universities and at the USGS EROS Data Center. Web site: http://www.sdepscor.org/cbs/
Application Procedure: Send an application letter, curriculum vitae, selected reprints or manuscripts, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of three references to: Dr. Carol A. Johnston, Center for Biocomplexity Studies, Box 2202, South Dakota State University, Brookings SD 57007-0896. Application deadline: Applications should be received by September 24, 2004 in order to receive full consideration in the initial screening. However, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Email inquiries to Carol.Johnston@sdstate.edu

South Dakota State University is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its faculty, staff, and students. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made at TTY (605) 688-4394.