A fellowship opportunity is available with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service (USFS) within the Rocky Mountain Research Station (RMRS located in Missoula, Montana. This research opportunity will support projects to increase understanding of fire-caused small tree mortality to foster successful prescribed burning and identify burning considerations to meet tree mortality-related objectives.
The fellow will collaborate with a field crew in field data collection and contribute to data management, sample processing, data analysis, and manuscript writing. Field data collection will involve assessing fire effects, measuring trees, and collecting general forest stand information across sites in Montana, Idaho, eastern Washington, and potentially other areas. Lab-based opportunities over the winter will involve learning and applying dendrochronological methods to samples collected over the summer and gaining experience in data management and analysis. This opportunity requires long days spent outside in sometimes hot, cold, or wet conditions with a team of 2-3 people. The experience is a combination of camping (30-50%) and day trips from Missoula, MT.
Application Deadline: 5/24/2024 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis, with priority given to applications received by March 24.
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: April 1, 2024. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year and six months, 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. This stipend is $50,000 - $60,000/year depending on experience, plus health insurance.
Qualifications: The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor's or master's in the one of the relevant fields (e.g. forestry, ecology and/or environmental science). Degree must have been received within the past five years or is anticipated to be received by 5/17/2024.
