RAW: Rapid Arctic Warming
Patterns and processes of rapid Arctic warming based on paleoclimate observations and models
We are seeking a cohort of graduate students to join an NSF-ARCSS-funded interdisciplinary team at the University at Buffalo (UB) and Northern Arizona University (NAU) that aims to better understand the feedbacks, patterns, and processes associated with rapid warming in the Arctic.
The UB team will quantify the climate response to three periods of abrupt warming (14,500; 11,700; and 8,000 years ago) by generating new temperature and precipitation records based on lipid biomarkers and compound-specific isotopes. We will also refine and apply proxy system models, which allows more direct comparison with climate model output for these time periods. The NAU team will develop new methods for extensive and precise chronological control for our sediment records, and will conduct paleoclimate data synthesis, analysis, and climate modeling.
There are opportunities for semester-long exchanges between UB and NAU. The project team will also contribute to outreach efforts that aim to connect K–12 students in Buffalo and Flagstaff to higher-education opportunities.
We are looking for highly motivated students with excellent communication skills in English (written and oral), and with experience with, or a strong interest in developing skills in, numerical modeling and scientific programming skills. We encourage candidates from groups underrepresented in the geosciences (including, but not limited to, black, indigenous, and people of color) to apply; we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all team members can learn and excel.
If you want to learn more about this project, check out our research websites:
http://www.glyfac.buffalo.edu/Faculty/ekthomas/
https://www.cefns.nau.edu/~npm4/
https://www.michaelerb.org/
https://www2.nau.edu/~dsk5/
The University at Buffalo offers MS and PhD degrees in Geology.
Learn about and apply to the UB programs here: https://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu/geology/graduate/graduate-overview.html
Students interested in pursuing their degree at Northern Arizona University can choose among three programs.
PhD: Earth Science and Environmental Sustainability, Climate and Environmental Change emphasis
MS: Environmental Science and Policy, Paleoenvironments emphasis
MS: Geology
Learn about and apply to the NAU School of Earth and Sustainability graduate programs here: https://nau.edu/ses
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is NOT required for admissions to UB or NAU graduate programs.
Questions? Email us! Please include your CV and a brief description of your interest in this project: ekthomas@buffalo.edu and/or Nicholas.McKay@nau.edu