PhD-student (Ecologist) Benthic diatoms as indicators for intertidal ecosystem structuring Vacancy number: 2013-056 Job description: Benthic diatoms (microscopic algae living on and in the sediment) cover vast areas of mudflats and sand flats and are important primary producers in many estuaries and coasts. These diatoms play a key role in regulating the biological, physical and chemical properties and processes of intertidal flats. However, little is known about the spatial variation in benthic primary production and how this may structure ecosystems. New satellite missions with super spectral sensors start an era for accurately detecting benthic diatoms at the basin scale. In this project, you will develop methods to retrieve the large-scale patterns and dynamics of diatom biomass from such sensors, and model benthic primary production in a spatially-explicit way. You will relate the outcome to the distribution of sediment-dwelling animals that rely on the algae, and explore the interactions using remote sensing, groundtruthing and controlled field experiments. The study will be carried out in a number of contrasting shallow tidal waters (e.g., Wadden Sea, Westerschelde and Oosterschelde estuary in the Netherlands). The project is financed by “NWO/Ruimteonderzoek”, and will be supervised by a multidisciplinary group of scientists from NIOZ. Requirements: We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with an MSc degree in (marine) ecology, biology or physical geography. Candidates should have a keen interest in intertidal ecology and in remote sensing. Advanced computer skills are preferred. The candidate should also be prepared to organize and carry out field campaigns. Good English oral and writing skills are essential. We expect that the candidate will successfully complete a PhD thesis and publish results in peer-reviewed journals. Conditions of employment: We offer a fulltime position for 4 years, a pension scheme, a yearly 8% vacation allowance, year-end bonus and flexible employment conditions. Advanced training opportunities are available. Conditions are based on the Collective Labour Agreement of Research Centers. The position will be located in Yerseke. Cost of relocation and help with housing is provided by NIOZ. Further information: Additional information on this vacancy can be obtained from: dr. D. van der Wal ([email protected]). Further information on NIOZ can be found on the internet: nioz.nl Applications: Applicants should send a cover letter with motivation, CV, names and email addresses of two referees, to NIOZ Yerseke, P.O. Box 140, 440 AC Yerseke, the Netherlands, or preferably per e-mail to: [email protected] Please quote the vacancy number 2013-056 in your application. Closing date: Applications can be submitted until 15 September, 2013.
Posted on: Wed, 24 Jul 2013 09:53:10 +0000