Two Postdoctoral positions are 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@..., Phone +46- (0)90-786 6604

Joakim Hjalten
Department of Animal Ecology
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
S-901 83 Umea, Sweden

email Joakim.Hjalten@...
Fax: +46-90-7866817
Phone: +46-90-7866604
Mobil: 070-3178183