Primate and non-primate mammal community composition and diversity has largely been explained by three separate processes: (1) niche-based processes (deterministic), (2) dispersal limitation and environmental stochasticity (stochastic), and (3) biogeographic dispersal barriers (biogeographic processes). However, no communities are shaped purely by a single process and discerning the extent to which these processes affect community composition is not possible without the use of an integrated model. The aim of this dissertation is to understand the processes shaping the composition and diversity of primate communities by examining entire mammal communities in Madagascar and Australia. Understanding the roles deterministic, stochastic, and biogeographic processes have in determining patterns of diversity have practical implications for predicting community responses to anthropogenic change and for distinguishing the extent to which each process has shaped both extinct and extant communities.
The successful applicant will have experience working with Microsoft Excel and ideally Microsoft Access. The successful applicant will have a high attention to detail, strong communication skills, and troubleshooting skills. An experience with quantitative data and/or databases is preferred.
The project is currently underway. This position will end in April/May 2013.
Your duties will include entering data and database management.
I would like to have a commitment from the successful applicant of five hours per week.
