We are currently looking for a Ph.D. student for Spring 2018 to help with a
project that focuses on reducing informational feedback delays between
applied ecological research and adoption of management practices in the
Northern Great Plains (USA).
That is, in what ways can monitoring and experimental data be translated
into local-scale useable products?
The successful candidate will use existing data from national research
networks and research stations to engage local stakeholders to design and
test the usability of real-time data products.
The student will work collaboratively with ecologists, social scientists,
and local landowners to create products that influence management practices
and enhance ecosystem services on working lands.
*Qualifications*
-B.S. in one of the following areas: environmental science, biology,
agricultural ecosystems, natural resources management, or rangeland ecology
-Demonstrated ability to work with stakeholders
-Strong communication skills
-Strong quantitative skills
-Some programming experience and interest in using visualization techniques
preferred.
*Funding*
The student will enroll in the Ph.D. program in Virginia Tech=E2=80=99s Department
of Forest Resources & Environmental Conservation and will be affiliated
with the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
<http://www.caryinstitute.org/science-program/our-scientists/dr-kathleen-c-weathers>
(http://www.caryinstitute.org/), one of the world=E2=80=99s leading independent,
environmental research organizations. Full graduate research assistantship
(with stipend) and tuition waiver will be provided for 3 years and
additional opportunities for funding are available. Students are strongly
encouraged to apply to be a fellow in Virginia Tech=E2=80=99s Interfaces of Global
Change <http://www.globalchange.vt.edu/igc/> graduate program (
http://www.globalchange.vt.edu/igc/), an interdisciplinary program designed
to address the multidimensional aspects of global change.
*Applying*
Interested students are encouraged to email the following as a single pdf
document: 1) a brief cover letter describing their professional background,
relevant research experience and interests, career goals, and reasons for
seeking a Ph.D., 2) a current curriculum vitae/resume, 3) names and contact
information for three references, and 4) an unofficial copy of transcripts
and GRE scores. Please send directly to me at msorice@vt.edu. Do not submit
materials to the Virginia Tech Graduate School at this time.
Applications will be reviewed as soon as they are received, but materials
must be received before
31
October 2017. The target start date is January 2018
or Fall 2018
.
*Contact Information*
Michael Sorice (Primary contact for position)
Associate Professor, Department of Forest Resources & Environmental
Conservation
Virginia Tech
Phone: (540) 231-8303
Email: m-sorice@vt.edu
Kathleen Weathers, Senior Scientist
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Phone: (845) 677-7600
Email: weathersk@caryinstitute.org
–=20
*Michael G. Sorice*, 310A Cheatham Hall (0324), Blacksburg, VA, 24061, Ph:
(540) 231-8303, msorice@vt.edu