Post-Doctoral Fellowship ˆ Analysis of duck population/landscape ecology
In collaboration with Ducks Unlimited Canada and University of Guelph, we are undertaking an assessment of broad-scale patterns of population change among breeding waterfowl populations. The project will involve analysis of 50+ years of surveys conducted on breeding ducks in the prairies, using what may constitute the most extensive animal population survey in the world. Specifically, we seek to understand patterns of change in abundance of 10+ duck species, including:
1- the relative contribution of endogenous (i.e., density-dependent) vs. exogenous (i.e., climate-related) factors influencing numerical variability;
2- the relationship between interspecific synchrony and landscape and climate features;
3- whether recent reduction in patterns of population density dependence correspond to decoupling in spatial dynamics; and
4- the influence of habitat and climate on breeding distribution and numerical variability. We hypothesize that breeding duck population change conforms to a Œtraveling wave‚ that is entrained by climatic or landscape variables, and that density-dependent mechanisms regulating the population have lessened through time. The proposed work builds on our recent analysis showing broad-scale patterns of duck population change (Murray et al. 2010, Ecology 91: 571-581). The scope and extent of the duck survey dataset allows us to test the above fundamental ecological questions at a fine scale across an extensive landscape; few (if any) other animal population datasets would avail themselves to such detailed analysis. The post-doctoral fellow will have the opportunity to develop an independent research program within the framework of existing funding.
Application Procedures
Applicants should hold a PhD in population ecology, landscape ecology, or a related area. The successful candidate should have expertise in population and/or landscape analysis and modeling, quantitative methods in ecology, and statistical analysis including previous work with GIS or time series data. The successful applicant will have demonstrated publishing success.
Candidates should submit a letter of application, curriculum vita, and names and contact information for three references to Dr. Dennis Murray, Department of Biology, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, ON Canada K9J 7B8 (email: dennismurray „at‰ trentu.ca, web page: http://www.dennismurray.ca). Applications will be reviewed immediately and the position will close as soon as a suitable candidate is found. The successful applicant will receive $45,000 annually, + benefits, and the two-year term should start no later than September 2011.