Research Associate (Postdoc) Socio-economics and social-ecological systems labs

Hiring Organization: Department of Forestry
Employment type: Full-Time
Application Due Date: January 3, 2024

The Department of Forestry at Michigan State University is seeking an outstanding Research Associate (Postdoctoral Researcher) to lead or assist with all phases of research and outreach on two projects – 1) an Extension and outreach project focused on a web-tool for estimating carbon sequestration and storage on private lands, and 2) a market analysis tool for the forest products industry in Michigan. Project focal areas may include stakeholder workshops, stakeholder engagement meetings, needs assessments, primary wood market data collection, economic modeling and market forecasting, and outreach to end-users. The successful candidate is expected to author/co-author publications based on new and secondary data, perform stakeholder engagement duties, and assist in managing the project (including supervision of undergraduate assistants and overseeing field-data collection). The position holds the potential for extending research in new directions and to collaboratively pursue additional research funding. The position also holds the potential to increase the candidate’s professional network, and work closely with the private sector. MSU’s strengths in human dimensions and forest economics provide a collaborative environment that supports success. The position will begin as a one‐year appointment with available extensions, depending on continued funding availability.

Required qualifications

The successful candidate will have an earned PhD in Statistics, Forestry, Economics, Natural Resources, Social Sciences or a closely related field; expertise in one or more of the following: outreach and community-engaged research; economics modeling experience; familiarity with R and/or other programming languages; strong skills in written and verbal communication; and experience in managing personnel and projects.

Preferred qualifications

Documented ability to bring projects to completion (publication record, both academic and outreach), evidence of successful engagement with stakeholders and landowners, evidence of effective independent and collaborative work, and project management experience.

Location

The position will be based at Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI, USA. MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Some or all the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon. The position may require some travel for stakeholder meetings and regional meetings.

To Apply

Submit your application online. Upload the following required documents: 1) a short letter of interest detailing qualifications for the position and research interests, 2) curriculum vitae, 3) a writing sample (preferably a journal article or dissertation chapter) and 4) a list of three professional references with contact information (institution, email address, phone number). Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application deadline

Review of applications will begin on January 1, 2024. Position will be open until filled. Desired start date is Spring 2024, but a later start may be possible. Questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Emily Huff or Dr. Raju Pokharel, ehuff@msu.edu and raju2020@msu.edu.

MSU is an equal opportunity employer and the MSU Department of Forestry is committed to promoting diversity in research. We actively encourage applications from, and nominations of, women, persons of color, veterans, persons with disabilities and other individuals who can contribute to the intellectual diversity and cultural richness at Michigan State University. MSU is committed to providing a work environment that supports employees’ work and personal life and offers employment assistance to the spouse or partner of candidates for faculty and academic staff positions.