MS and PhD Research Assistantships in Northern Hardwood Forest Ecology and Management at Michigan Tech
Graduate Research Assistantships in Northern Hardwood Silviculture
Position Description: The Forest Ecosystem Management and Silviculture Lab is recruiting two graduate students (1 MS and 1 PhD). Positions may begin in summer/fall of 2022. Initial support includes two full years of support (tuition and salary), with additional support likely for the PhD student. Research will focus on field studies of silvicultural management of northern hardwood forest ecosystems. Topics may include: 1) functional trait-based approaches for designing and evaluating long-term sustainability of silvicultural systems; 2) linkages between the understory microclimate and forest structural complexity; 3) effects of microclimate on growth and survival of tree seedlings; 4) improved forest management for climate change mitigation and adaptation; or 5) maintaining ground-layer plant diversity in managed forests.
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in forestry, biology, natural resources, ecology, environmental science or a closely related field is required. Preferred qualifications include: strong interest in developing expertise in silviculture and forest ecology, quantitative skills or interest in developing quantitative skills; previous research experience; ability to work independently and on a team; strong work ethic; communication skills; field experience; leadership experience or potential; and plant identification skills. Applicants for the PhD assistantship should have a MS degree or analogous qualifications.
Application: Applications may be submitted at no cost to the graduate program in the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science. Please describe your research interests and indicate your interest in working in the Forest Ecosystem Management and Silviculture Lab in your statement of purpose and/or personal statement. You may inquire informally by submitting your resume and statements directly to me (contact information below). We are committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and a sense of belonging. Women and people from other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
Contact: Dr. Julia Burton ([email protected], 906-487-2387)
For more information about the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, please visit: https://www.mtu.edu/forest/
Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Julia Burton (she/her)
Associate Professor of Silviculture
College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science
Michigan Technological University
1400 Townsend Dr.
Houghton, MI 49931
[email protected]
Adjunct Associate Professor
SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
Department of Sustainable Resources Management
Forest Ecosystem Management & Silviculture Lab
