Graduate student

Graduate student opportunity in biogeography/ecology at the University of Idaho

Three years of research funding is available for a PhD student to work on a project investigating outbreaks of flatheaded fir borer (FFB), an insect causing significant mortality of Douglas-firs in Oregon and California.  Project goals include developing two statistical models of FFB, one at more local and one at more regional scales, to increase understanding of climate and tree/stand drivers of outbreaks and inform management decisions.  The project begins Fall 2024; an earlier start date (e.g., in summer) is possible.  Funding includes $30,000 in salary, tuition/fees, and health insurance each year, and is contingent on final approval.  The successful candidate will have a background in geography, ecology, forestry, biology, or a related field.  Desirable qualifications include a background in biogeography or ecology; familiarity with statistical methods, computer programming (e.g., R), and spatial data sets; excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to work independently and collaboratively and meet deadlines; and an enthusiasm for research.  The student has the opportunity to receive a degree in either Geography (www.uidaho.edu/sci/ess/graduate-programs) or Environmental Science (www.uidaho.edu/cnr/grad-programs).  Interested persons should apply to University of Idaho Graduate Admissions (www.uidaho.edu/admissions/graduate).  The supervisor will be Dr. Jeffrey Hicke, Department of Earth and Spatial Sciences.  Inquiries welcome (jhicke@uidaho.edu, 208-885-6240).