The Ecological Restoration Institute of Northern Arizona University (NAU) has openings for two (2) graduate research assistantships available immediately. We seek applications from highly-motivated individuals interested in pursuing PhD or MS graduate studies in Forest Operations and Biomass Utilization. The goal of our research projects are to facilitate successful implementation of forest restoration and fuel reduction thinning treatments through innovations in forest operations and biomass utilization. The successful candidates may begin their initial research work in the summer of 2018 before starting their program of graduate studies in the fall of 2018 at NAU.
Research projects will focus on:
- Analysis of thinning operations to restore and improve forest conditions such as reduced fire, insect and disease hazards, restored natural tree density, increased surface and groundwater yield, as well as improved wildlife habitat using various harvesting systems (conventional, cut-to-length, skyline, and helicopter);
- Evaluation of technical and utilization strategies for increasing efficiencies in harvesting, processing, and transportation of small-diameter trees;
- Economics and equipment options for recovery of forest residues (limbs, branches, and bole material) left at landings and on harvesting sites;
- Marketing strategies and product diversifications that are targeted toward utilizing woody materials resulting from forest restoration and fuel reduction thinning treatments; and
- Development of a forest products industry to support forest management practices in National Forests and other forestlands.
The graduate research assistantship will include an annual stipend ($24,000 for a PhD student or $18,000 for a MS student) for a full-time appointment plus tuition waivers and health benefits.
Qualifications: Applicants should have a strong interest in forest operations and biomass utilization and a prior degree in forestry, forest operations or a related discipline.
Applicants with past research experience, outstanding academic record and GRE scores, and evidence of strong writing and relevant methodological skills are preferred.
Applicants for a PhD position must possess an MS degree.
Deadline for applications is February 16, 2018. However, Applications will be reviewed ey are received.
How to apply: please email a single PDF file to Dr. Han-Sup Han containing (1) a one page cover letter outlining your research interests, relevant experience and preference for MS or PhD position; (2) your CV; (3) undergraduate/graduate transcripts and GRE scores; and (4) full contact information for 3 professional references. The subject line of the email must read: Forest Operations and Biomass Utilization Graduate Position.
Information on the NAU Graduate College’s admissions requirements can be accessed through the following link: https://nau.edu/graduate-college/admissions/
Additional information on the NAU School of Forestry admissions requirements is available through the following link: https://nau.edu/CEFNS/Forestry/Degrees/
For further information contact:
Han-Sup Han, Ph.D. Professor and Director of Forest Operations and Biomass Utilization Ecological Restoration Institute
Northern Arizona University
PO Box 15017, Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5017 Email: Han-Sup.Han@nau.edu
Phone: (928) 523-1049
