Graduate Research Assistantship (PhD) – Coastal wetland ecology and modeling

A PhD student is sought to conduct research as part of a multidisciplinary study examining tidal freshwater forested wetlands in the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta in south Alabama. The project will examine forested wetlands and supporting conditions across a freshwater tidal gradient and their connection to Mobile Bay. The student will work with our team to develop predictive wetland-hydrologic models based on machine-learning approaches. Other research elements related to the project will be developed by the student and advisors. Desirable background and skills include: i) field experience in forested wetlands, ii) exposure to machine-learning or other environmental modeling approaches, iii) experience operating a motorboat and iv) demonstrated abilities to manage and analyze large data. Prospective students should be highly motivated, demonstrate good communication and analytical skills, and be willing to conduct extensive field and modeling work.  An M.S. degree in environmental science, ecology, aquatic science, or natural resources is required.  Preference will be given to students with experience related to the desirable background and skills. The student will work with labs lead by PIs Chris Anderson (https://auburnwetlands.weebly.com/) and Latif Kalin (https://latifkalin.weebly.com/).