Most ecological functions of coral reefs are founded on their ability to maintain the production of a reef framework (i.e., that processes of reef bioconstruction exceed those of erosion). It is important to know how local management actions, as well as global action to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, can influence the ability of reefs to function in future. To do this, we need to create models of the ecosystem that integrate a wealth of experimental and observational research. A position is available to work on this challenge for reefs in the Pacific, including the GBR and Palau. The position is initially advertised for 1 year but an extension may become feasible..
The position is based at The University of Queensland, in Brisbane, Australia. The applicant would join a diverse research group and take a lead in developing new ecological models (http://www.marinespatialecologylab.org). There is also substantial opportunity to contribute to on-going collaborations with researchers at AIMS, Griffith University, JCU, and the University of Exeter (UK).
The successful applicant will have a PhD in a relevant topic. Topics could include ecosystem modelling, empirical research on impacts of ocean acidification on on coral reefs, biogeochemistry of coral reefs, carbonate budgets.. Applicants are welcome to apply who have no modelling experience providing they’re willing to learn (it isn’t that difficult!).
Application deadline: 25th January 2014 (no internal candidate in mind).
Start date: 1st April 2014, salary ca $70,000 + benefits
For informal enquiries please contact Prof Peter Mumby (p.j.mumby@uq.edu.au)
University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. Marine Spatial Ecology Lab page.
