Ph.D. Position Available at Northern Arizona University
A Ph.D. graduate research position is available in Dr. Michelle Mack’s lab (https://macklab.nau.edu/) in the Center for Ecosystem Science and Society (Ecoss) and the Department of Biological Sciences at Northern Arizona University to work on a newly funded grant “Socio-ecological considerations for sustainAble Fuel treatments to Reduce wildfire Risk (SAFRR).”
This is a multi-institutional collaborative project that seeks to optimize the design of fuel reduction treatments to mitigate wildfire effects on communities in Alaska and Canada. Our objectives are to: 1) create a framework to evaluate viability of fuel treatments, 2) assess the ecological effects of fuel treatments and their consequences for maintenance, 3) examine the social acceptability and economic feasibility of fuel treatments, 4) assess the influence of fuel treatments on wildfire behavior and ability to protect the built environment, and 5) evaluate the ability of alternative fuel treatment designs to achieve identified social, ecological, and public safety goals. This Ph.D. position will focus on the ecological effects of fuel treatments and has a large field component, with fieldwork being conducted in Alaska and the Yukon during summer months. Thus, successful applicants will have enthusiasm for both ecology and fieldwork. A background in ecology or related fields and strong written and verbal communication skills are required. This position is through the Department of Biological Sciences, where graduate student benefits include stipend (TA or RA), tuition waiver, and health insurance.
To apply, send a single PDF file that includes your CV; a letter describing your experience, research interests, and career goals; and contact information for three professional references to Michelle Mack ([email protected]). Review of applications will begin on Nov. 29, 2021 and continue until the position is filled. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace (https://ecoss.nau.edu/inclusion/). We strongly encourage applications from women and members of underrepresented minority groups.
