2 PhD Students in Ecophysiology & Tree Ecology

Your position

The key objective of the advertised PhD projects is to understand the physiological,
anatomical and morphological responses of mature trees to experimentally
induced water limitation. Your tasks will be to assess in the field howkey ecophysiological processes (e.g. stomatal conductance, photosynthesis, water potential, osmotic adjustment, water uptake depth), anatomical traits (e.g. vessel diameter, cell size), as well as morphological characteristics (e.g. leaf area, leaf size, rooting depth) respond to the experimental treatments. You will further use state-of the art statistical tools and models to analyze these data to understand the potential of the different tree species to resist against or acclimate to changes in hydroclimate.

Your profile

We are looking for dynamic, reliable, and motivated students with M.Sc./Diploma in biology, ecology, forestry, or related disciplines. Strong interest in process-oriented research in plant physiology and plant ecology and hands-on experience with ecophysiological instruments and field work are beneficial. You need to feel comfortable to work in the gondola of the Swiss Canopy Crane II, 35 m above the ground. A valid driver license is required. Teamwork within the group and project partners requires advanced spoken and written English language skills.