Two Postdoctoral positions open

Two Postdoctoral positions open at the Department of Animal Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden

The importance of dead wood quality and the spatial distribution of dead wood for the preservation of threatened insects

Swedish forestry is one of the most intensive and technically-developed in the world. This has unfortunately lead to a decrease in many forest organisms, e.g. insect species dependent on dead wood (saproxylic species) and fire disturbance. Certification demands (FSC) and changes in the Swedish legislation has lead to changes in forestry practise, such as dead tree retention, preserving and creating dead trees and snags, and controlled burning of (mainly) clear-felled areas, in an attempt to preserve threatened forest organisms. However, the value of these measures (from a conservation standpoint) has not been rigorously evaluated. A large-scale field experiment was initiated by researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in the summer of 2001. The experiment is designed to assess the value (from a conservation perspective) of the conservation measures used today as well as to evaluate several modifications, which might improve the efficiency of these measures for preserving insect diversity. The general aim of the project is to evaluate if the quality of logs and snags (for insects) of Birch and Pine can be improved by additional treatments like shading, burning and/or inoculation with fungi. An additional aim is to evaluate the relative value of tree retention in forest reserves, mature managed forests and clear-felled areas.

In association with this project we search for two postdocs. The positions are available for one year with a possibility for prolongation of one additional year. Applicants should have a solid ecological background, for example a PhD in biology or forestry. Experience in conservation biology and knowledge of saproxylic insects and wood fungi is valuable but not necessary. The deadline for the applications, which should be sent to J. Hjältén and include a CV, a description of the applicant and her/his interest and knowledge in conservation issues and entomology, and the name of two reference persons, is 24 February 2003.

For further information contact, Joakim Hjältén, Department of Animal Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-901 83, Umeå, Sweden. E-mail: Joakim.Hjalten@szooek.slu.se, Phone +46- (0)90-786 6604

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Posted Feb 03 2003