The USDA Forest Service's Pacific Southwest Research Station (PSW) is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow and a Data Analysis Fellow, both preferably with experience in fire ecology/fire science, to collaborate with scientists at all USFS research stations on a National research effort to help evaluate the effectiveness of fuel reduction treatments, including mechanical thinning and prescribed fire, through case studies of wildfires interacting with those treatments. The objective of the project is to better understand the conditions under which treatments produce desirable outcomes, including reduction in fire severity, successful containment of fire spread by suppression operations, as well as reduction in wildfire impacts to homes and other infrastructure, to inform future adaptive management in a changing climate. The project involves both methodological development that will allow for future comparisons across geographic regions, and analysis of case studies. The two participants will take on different roles (flexible and to be determined, based on strengths and interests), but each will gain experience with data acquisition and data analysis, as well as collaborating in the writing of manuscripts.
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: October 2023. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for two years but may be extended upon recommendation of USFS and is contingent on the availability of funds.
Level of Participation: The appointment is full-time.
Participant Stipend: The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. The current annual stipend is $85,000 for candidates with a Ph.D. and $66,500 for a candidate with an MS degree. Both will be provided health insurance, a travel allowance, supplies budget, and a USFS computer.
