Deadline: Tue, 01/31/2023 - 12:00pm Employer: University of Maine Job Field: Forestry Policy/Administrative Job Type: Assistantship Location: Maine Location Detail: Orono, Maine Job Description: The University of Maine’s Forest Policy and Economics Lab is seeking a highly qualified Ph.D. student for forest and conservation policy research, starting in Fall 2023. The research assistant will primarily focus on developing and using the Maine Integrated Forest Ecosystem Services (MIFES) decision support tool to analyze natural resource and conservation policy. The graduate assistant will be responsible for collating and analyzing data, contributing to the MIFES model development, and drafting peer-reviewed publications. Potential research includes (1) quantifying the current stock and flow of Maine’s forest ecosystem services (FES), (2) developing a spatially explicit integrated decision support tool to analyze ecological and socio-economic impacts of natural resource policy, and (3) identifying policy options to facilitate efficient and cost-effective pathways to implement conservation plans, improve forest management, and promote sustainable practices that enhance Maine’s economy and socio-ecological resilience. Qualifications: A M.S. degree in forestry, economics, or statistics (or quantitatively focused environmental or social science degree along with a background in natural resource management). A high GPA, strong GRE scores, and solid writing and communication skills are essential. Experience with statistical analysis, GIS, and computer programming is preferred. The ideal candidate will have a degree in one of the above fields, experience with quantitative analysis, a proven ability to work independently, an eagerness for research, and demonstrated scholastic success. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Miscellaneous: With almost 90% of the state covered by forest, forest resources are central to Maine’s quality of life and economy. The UMaine School of Forest Resources provides essential forestry education and research and is a signature area of the University of Maine. Approximately 60 graduate students are currently enrolled in M.F., M.S., and Ph.D. programs within the SFR. The University has over 11,000 students and is the state’s flagship research institution. Salary: $26,667/yr Benefits: This position provides 3 years of funding for a 20 hour/week assistantship ($26,667/year), 50% of health insurance paid, and a tuition waiver for the University of Maine. Office space and operating support (e.g., use of a laptop, travel funds) are also included. How to Apply: Please submit a cover letter explaining your interest in the position, your qualifications, and research areas of interest, a CV that includes contact information for three references, university transcripts and GRE scores (if available) via this Google Form: https://forms.gle/KZvByprTSJuvz5yS8
