I am seeking a M.S. student interested in studying water quality/water chemistry at the Valles Caldera National Preserve (VCNP) in New Mexico. Expected start date is Summer or Fall 2009, in the Department of Natural Resources Management, New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU), Las Vegas, NM. The successful applicant's thesis will begin long-term research based at the VCNP, one of the most innovative adaptive resource management programs in the United States. The study will focus on the effects climate change has on water quality in streams within the Preserve.

Research for the thesis is anticipated to have three possible topics within the area of biogeochemical cycling. 1) nutrients (nitrogen and phosphate); 2) soluble organics; and 3) metals.

Water quality and solute fluxes are critical components of water supply and should be studied to determine their response to climate change. The Valles Caldera Preserve contains several snow-fed streams that are excellent candidates for this type of research due to the sensitivity of snowmelt-dominated rivers to climate change. Field work is planned to start early summer 2009 and continue to summer 2010. This field work would take place during periodic trips from Las Vegas, NM to Valles Caldera (every two weeks for one year). Data analysis would take place at the NMHU Water Quality Lab. Depending on interest, some additional field work may be possible in other high mountain watersheds in northern New Mexico.

The ideal candidate for this position would have a B.S. degree with strong quantitative skills and experience in chemistry and/or water science, be experienced in manipulating data in spreadsheets, and has completed coursework in water science and analytical chemistry. Field experience is desirable but not imperative. A research assistantship for Fall and Spring semesters is available along with a tuition waiver (total = $12,524). Funding for this student will also be available for summer research support.

To be considered for this position, please contact Dr. Edward Martinez at eamartinez@nmhu.edu. You will also need to complete the NMHU Graduate School application. See the Department of Natural Resources Management or go to http://www.nmhu.edu/future/admissions/graduate/index.aspx for an application.

PLEASE NOTE that the University does not have an application deadline however if you want to start summer 2009 please submit your application as soon as possible, to be considered for Fall 2009 submit application by May 8th, 2009.