Function
The research will establish links between 3D complexity and coral reef processes (bioerosion, calcification, settlement, recruitment and space competition between corals, benthic algae, and sponges) by using novel techniques such as 3D photography, but also by looking at historical data including a 40 year photographic record of reefs of Bonaire and Curacao. Long-term changes in reef shapes have been observed all over the world, but few reefs have been so well documented as the reefs of Bonaire and Curaçao where 3x3m quadrats at 4 depths and multiple sites have been followed for more than 40 years. Decrease of living coral cover all over the Caribbean led to a flattening of reefs, the loss of three-dimensional structure, and probably profound changes in the basic processes in reef ecology including a decrease in biodiversity, fish biomass, and reef resilience. The role of sponges in relation to other important benthic taxa will be studied in this data set, supplemented by field research and experiments.
Function Requirements
We are looking for a Master in biological or environmental marine sciences with interest and preferably experience in coral reef research. The successful candidate will study linkages between 3D complexity and coral reef processes. We are particularly keen to receive applications from candidates with strong quantitative and/or modelling skills. Demonstrable experience in underwater photography, image analysis, 3D imagery, spatial statistics, R (not a typo), as well as already published papers and good communication skills will be considered advantageous in the application process. The PhD candidate will be based on Texel at IMARES/NIOZ and is expected to spend up to 3 months per year in the Dutch Caribbean for fieldwork, for which at least a 2-star divers certificate or approved equivalent is required.
Working conditions
A PhD candidate position in the midst of the dynamic environment of the applied research institute IMARES and the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ), working from the Ecosystems department of IMARES on Texel. Additional training at Wageningen University will be available. The position is for fulltime employment (38h a week) for 18 months with a possible extension of 30 months after a positive evaluation. The gross salary € 2083,-- per month till € 2664,--.per month.
Contactinformation
For more information about this position, please contact Dr Erik Meesters or Dr Fleur van Duyl or at respectively +31 317 487101 or +31 222 369543, emails Erik.Meesters@wur.nl and Fleur.van.Duyl@nioz.nl or Prof. Dr Han Lindeboom at +31 317 487099 and Han.Lindeboom@wur.nl.
Please react before April 20th 2014.
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For application visit http://www.connexys.nl/wageningenursite/page.html
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