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The science of ecology is about solving some of the world’s most pressing problems. More than ever, this requires a breadth of perspectives from a workforce that reflects the racial and cultural diversity of society. The Fridley Lab supports efforts that broaden participation in ecology and the field sciences. We strive to do better in recruiting and nurturing underrepresented scientists; we value above all an inclusive workplace free of discrimination; and we support the fight for social and environmental justice.
Postdoctoral Opportunity: Ecosystem/Soils Ecology - Clemson Experimental Forest
The Fridley and Tharayil Labs at Clemson University are seeking applications for a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in ecosystem, soil and/or microbial ecology to join a project involving long-term soil organic carbon dynamics in Clemson Experimental Forest (CEF). The successful applicant will characterize how physiological traits of dominant tree species influence the amount, quality, and stability of soil organic matter, involving field sampling and lab analysis of soil cores across CEF permanent plots. Activities include field core extraction, physical and chemical soil characterization, analysis of molecular-level organic composition, and field assays such as litter decomposition. Responsibilities include student mentoring, grant writing, and statistical analysis. Some physical labor in forests near Clemson University is required. The project is a collaboration of ecologists across multiple departments and the successful applicant will help establish a university-wide working group on carbon sequestration across the CEF, including faculty, students, and professional forestry staff. Funding is available for two years with annual reappointment. Start date is flexible and could begin immediately. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in a related field, and demonstrated research productivity and mentoring experiences in ecosystem, soil, and/or microbial ecology. Preference will be given to those applicants with experience in finer-scale soil organic matter characterization using mass spectrometry (or related) approaches. To apply, please submit a brief statement of interest, CV, and the names and contact information for three references to https://apply.interfolio.com/164158. The position will remain open until filled; applications submitted by 4/1/25 will receive full consideration.
Summer REU positions (May-August 2025)
We seek two motivated undergraduate students interested in gaining research experience in plant ecology as part of research teams working in the Great Smoky Mountains and Clemson Experimental Forest. Students will assist lab staff and graduate students in fieldwork in and around Clemson, SC, as well as several multi-day trips to the Smokies, about two hours from campus. Students must be able and willing to do some hiking and work off trails in humid conditions, and front-country camping is involved for at least one student. Students will also be involved in a variety of laboratory activities related to plant growth trials, plant tissue digestions, biomass analysis, and data entry. Other activities including computing, sensor building, and statistical analysis, depending on student interest. Students will be provided with a $6000 stipend for living expenses over the 12-wk duration starting approximately May 19 (start and end dates are flexible). Relevant experience and ecology- or plant biology-related coursework is desirable but not required. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Spring 2025 graduates are not eligible. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for two references to Jason Fridley (fridley@clemson.edu) by March 21, 2025.
Graduate Studies in the Fridley Lab - Opportunities for Fall 2024 (filled)
Opportunities are available for new PhD and MS students for Fall 2024 admission into the Biological Sciences Graduate Program at Clemson. Prospective graduate students are encouraged to email Jason (fridley@clemson.edu); please include a CV and a statement of interest. Research in the Fridley Lab focuses on plant functional ecology, with expertise in species invasions, forest ecology, climate change, and tree ecophysiology. Opportunities are available for fieldwork internationally, as well as new projects that take advantage of collections at the on-campus South Carolina Botanical Garden or the surrounding 7000-hectare Clemson Experimental Forest. Research assistantship support may be available for PhD applicants; support through teaching assistantships is guaranteed for all graduate students pending satisfactory degree progress. Full applications are due by Dec 1; there is no admission fee or GRE requirement.
Details about the program, the university, and life in Clemson are found in the Department Graduate Student Guide.
Open Position for a Research Technician (2023) [filled]
We seek a full-time research technician to manage lab and field activities related to forest dynamics, tree physiology, and biological invasions. The position is renewable annually for a minimum of two years. Activities include fieldwork in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Clemson Experimental Forest, and the South Carolina Botanical Garden, with the potential for travel to more remote locations. Laboratory and greenhouse activities may include plant growth trials, gas exchange measurements, chemical assays, isotopic analysis, and construction of environmental sensors. Preferred qualifications include a graduate degree in ecology or related disciplines; evidence of strong organizational, leadership, and data management skills; student mentoring experience; and the capacity for working long days in remote locations. Experience in programming, electronics, statistics, tree ring analysis, or relevant lab instrumentation is desirable but not required. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree and relevant field and lab experience may still apply. The starting annual salary is $47-55K, depending on experience, and the position could begin as early as May 1, 2023. Please contact Jason Fridley (fridley@clemson.edu) for more information. Applicants that apply by April 15 will get full consideration. To apply, visit https://jobs.clemson.edu and search for job 107668.
Opportunities for Undergraduates
Undergraduate research in the Fridley lab could take a number of forms, including field surveys, experiments, simulation modeling, and database analysis. Interested undergraduate students should be prepared to dedicate at least two semesters to their research project, should have strong quantitative skills, and should be eager to immerse themselves in the scientific literature. Interested students should contact Jason to discuss potential research projects.
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