North Carolina State University, The Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources calls for applications for a fully-funded PhD assistantship for the project titled, 'Influence of Community Forestry on the Dynamics of the Integrated Socio-Environmental Systems,'. The research project, which is funded by the National Science Foundation, Dynamics of Integrated Socio-Environmental Systems (NSF-DISES) is scheduled to begin in fall 2022.
The project examines the links between community forestry in Nepal and (a) community social capital and livelihoods, (b) rural out-migration, and (c) land-use decisions, as well as the role of community forestry in mitigating COVID-19's consequences. The chosen student will work on household surveys in Nepal, data analysis, and publishing with Drs. Erin Sills and Rajan Parajuli.
Required qualifications:
- M.S. in forestry, natural resources, environment and development economics, social sciences, or related degree.
- The successful candidate should be highly motivated to work with an interdisciplinary and inter-institutional team and have strong analytical and communication skills.
- Field experience with social surveys and research experience in economics, social sciences, or human dimensions are preferred.
Assistantship Package:
The research assistantship covers tuition, health insurance, and a $26,000 annual stipend for three years. It assumes that 20 hours per week for 12 months per year will be dedicated to research. The selected student may participate in fieldwork in Nepal during one or more summers.
Application Process:
Begin the application process by submitting an expression of interest to Dr. Erin Sills (sills@ncsu.edu) and Dr. Rajan Parajuli (rparaju@ncsu.edu). This should include:
- A cover letter describing your research experience and interests.
- A resume including names of three references,
- Unofficial B.S. and M.S. transcripts and GRE scores.
Students from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
The position is to remain open until filled. Expressions of interest will be reviewed starting October 15, 2021, and continue on a rolling basis. The selected student will be invited to immediately submit an application through the Graduate school of NC State University.
For more information on the application process please follow the link below: https://cnr.ncsu.edu/fer/graduate/application-process/.