OutlineIntra annual density fluctuations in wood- what we know about atypical radial growth

[supervisors: dr hab. Marcin Koprowski, NCU/Filipe Campelo, Ph.D. Centre for Functional Ecology – Science for People & the Planet (CFE), Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra]

Project goals: Intra-Annual Density Fluctuations (IADFs) can be considered as tree-ring anomalies that can be used to better understand tree growth. We want the answer the question whether IADFs, in temperate climate, resulting from a prompt adjustment to fluctuations in environmental conditions to avoid stressful conditions and/or to take advantage from favorable conditions?

Outline: In the current research project we will use a collection of the 1500 samples taken in years 1999-2018 and deposited at the Department of Ecology and Biogeography, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences. Using this samples 4 papers were published in years 2006-2013. However in the previous studies only the tree-ring widths were considered. Atypical growth called Intra-Annual Density Fluctuation is currently under the interest because of the climate change and its impact on forest, especially drought effect. PhD student will analyse this growth using the classification proposed by Campelo et al. (2012). On the selected samples the micro-anatomical wood analysis were prepared in order to identify climate or site parameters affected wood growth.

Work plan: Student will visually identify atypical growth on the collected samples and next will prepare statistical analysis according the methodology proposed by Klisz et al. (2016). Next on the selected samples PhD student will prepare micro-sections in order to study effect of temperature and precipitation on atypical growth.

What is funded

Stipend for 4 years in the amount of 3 000 PLN/month.

Scholarship: PhD student stipend is available from September 1st, 2020.

The scholarship is awarded according to the National Centre of Science Regulations on Awarding Scholarships in NCN Funded Research Projects, as detailed in the Annex to resolution no 25/2019 of the Council of the NCN on the 14th of March, 2019.

Duration

4 years.

Eligibility

A Master degree (a magister or a magister inżynier degree) or an equivalent degree, or the diploma, entitling to apply for the award of a degree of doctor in the country in the education system of which the higher education institution which issued it operates.

Taking part in the recruitment process.