We seek a motivated graduate student to lead a project on the physiological ecology of American chestnut trees as part of a major effort to restore blight-tolerant American chestnut trees to forests of eastern North America. The primary goal of the project is to evaluate the performance of genetically engineered (GE) American chestnut trees in different environments with measurements of growth, photosynthesis, and respiration rates. The successful candidate will join a vibrant team of students, staff, and researchers who are enthusiastic about chestnuts and tree restoration. The position is fully funded for 2+ years at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF), a doctoral-granting institution in Syracuse, New York, with a focus on the environment. Students with fieldwork experience in forest ecosystems, proficiency with plant physiological measurements, and/or experience with plant pathology or forest health are particularly encouraged to apply. A strong interest in plant physiology is required. Candidates will be considered for either an MS or PhD degree, depending on experience. Please contact Dr. John Drake (jedrake at esf.edu) for more information and see https://drakelab.weebly.com/. Applications are rolling for a preferred start date in January 2024. To begin the application process, please send a CV and statement of interest to Dr Drake by e-mail.
ESF was established as a college of forestry in 1911 and is one of the oldest and most prestigious forestry schools in the United States. ESF operates four field facilities and >25,000 acres of mostly forested land, providing excellent opportunities for field research. Students at ESF enjoy the benefits of a small institution, but can also access the resources and facilities of Syracuse University, an adjacent large university. The Princeton Review ranked ESF as the #2 Green College, and the Sierra Club listed ESF among the nation's top "Cool Schools".