Deadline: Fri, 01/19/2024 - 12:00pm Employer: University of Maine School of Forest Resources Job Field: Forestry Policy/Administrative Job Type: Assistantship Location: Maine Location Detail: Orono, Maine Job Description: The University of Maine’s Forest Policy and Economics Lab applicants for a funded Master’s-level graduate research assistant (GRA) focusing on forest biomass policy and economics, with an emphasis on producing biochar products for agricultural uses, starting in 2024. This position is supported by a USDA Agricultural Research Service grant focused on evaluating policy and economic incentives that to scale up the use of forest-based biochar in Maine. The graduate research assistant will help conduct analysis and recommendations to the State government policymakers for promoting biochar applications in Maine’s agricultural industry. The preferred start date is either June or September 2024. Qualifications: A B.S. degree in forestry, agriculture, economics, or statistics (or quantitatively focused environmental or social science degree along with a background in natural resource management). A high GPA, strong GRE scores, and solid writing and communication skills are essential. Experience with statistical analysis, GIS, and computer programming is preferred. The ideal candidate will have a degree in one of the above fields, experience with quantitative analysis, a proven ability to work independently, an eagerness for research, and demonstrated scholastic success. Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. Miscellaneous: The graduate research assistant will be responsible for developing quantitative economic and policy analyses, collecting and analyzing biochar manufacturer and farmer survey data, and drafting publications and outreach materials. The student will receive training in forest policy and economics and will work closely with an interdisciplinary team from the University of Maine as well as with key participants in the forest and agriculture sectors from across the Northeast US. Salary: $31,000/yr Benefits: This position provides 2 years (24-months) of funding for a 20 hour/week assistantship, 50% of health insurance paid for the University of Maine. Office space, operating support (e.g., use of a laptop, travel funds), and an out-of-state tuition waiver are also included. How to Apply: Please submit a cover letter explaining your interest in the position, your qualifications, and how your interests and skills align with this research project, a CV that includes contact information for three references, university transcripts, and GRE scores (if available) via the form available at: https://umaine.edu/forestpolicy/available-positions/ For more details, please contact: Dr. Adam Daigneault, EL Giddings Associate Professor of Forest Policy and Economics, at adam.daigneault@maine.edu
