Spatially Connected

Forest Landscape Ecology Internship at the Smithsonian Conservation & Research Center

The Conservation GIS Lab at the Smithsonian Conservation & Research Center (CRC) is seeking an intern to start on or around January 5th 2010. The Lab specializes in the application of ecological modeling, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS) to conservation problems.The successful applicant will work closely with Dr. Jonathan Thompson assisting with several aspects of two ongoing research projects (see below), which are jointly based at the Smithsonian CRC and Harvard Forest. The intern will also be expected to help with general tasks in the GIS Lab and assist with periodic professional training seminars based at the lab.

Project 1: Scenarios of forest landscape change in New England:We use ecosystem and landscape simulation models to assess plausible future scenarios of land use change, timber harvest, conservation, and climate change and the potential consequences on the composition, configuration, and carbon stores of forests in the eastern United States.

Project 2: Ecological Patterns and Consequences of Catastrophic Mortality of a Foundation Species (Oak) due to Abrupt Climatic and Biotic Stresses: We are characterizing the distinctive pathways of forest change that have been initiated by multiple disturbances (drought and several defoliating insects) and have reshaped the coastal landscape on the island of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. Using multi-temporal, remotely sensed imagery, we examine key aspects of the disturbance history including the timing and intensity of defoliation's, year of death or pattern of recovery. Emerging patterns are interpreted in relation to spatial layers of biophysical factors and information on historical insect outbreaks.We seek an intern with a good knowledge of computers.

While not required, preference will be given to applicants that have experience summarizing scientific literature, using GIS software, remote sensing software, and/or R-statistical software. Most importantly, the applicant should be interested in forest ecosystems, landscape ecology, ecological modeling, and must be willing to learn how to use esoteric software.

The internship includes a stipend and housing.

Send letter of interest and resume to Jonathan Thompson(thompsonjr@si.edu<mailto:thompsonjr@si.edu>) before November 20, 2009. Résumé should include contact information for 3 references. Include potential start date (preferably on or around Jan 5th) and the time period you are available for the internship in your letter.. Please also include the words "Internship Application" in the subject line of your email.The Conservation and Research Center is located at the north entrance of the Shenandoah National Park about 60 miles west of Washington, D.C., in Front Royal, VA. In meeting the Smithsonian Institution's mandate, CRC increases knowledge through investigations of threatened species, habitats, and communities, and disseminates knowledge through advanced studies, professional training, and public outreach.