PhD Graduate Assistantship: Forest Reclamation of Strip Mines in Texas (Forestry, Logging & Mill Operations)

Internship

  Stephen F. Austin State University (http://www.sfasu.edu)

  Nacogdoches, Texas, United States

Job Description: 

A graduate assistantship is available investigating forest reclamation of coal strip mines in the Western Gulf Region as part of a four-year project funded by the USDI Office of Surface Mining, Reclamation, and Enforcement. Compaction on reclaimed mines reduces the productivity of forests. In the Appalachian Region the Forestry Reclamation Approach (FRA) has improved forest productivity by ensuring that a sufficient depth of suitable growth medium at low bulk density is present for forest trees. However, similar research is not available in the western Gulf Coastal Plain, where strip mining for lignite coal is a common practice. Many of these mines are restored to loblolly pine plantations, a widespread forest cover type in the US South. This project will create and quantify a large-scale, simulated mining experiment and demonstration area comparing conventional pan scraper reclamation currently in use in this region with an unmined control and a FRA-style low compaction treatment. Data collection and modeling will include soil physical properties, hydrology, tree survival and growth, etc. Benefits include a stipend of $25,000 per year, a waiver of out-of-state tuition, and optional health care. However, in-state tuition does still apply.

Qualifications: The applicant should have:

  • a B.S. and M.S. in Forestry, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Biology, or a related field. 
  • GPA should meet or exceed 3.0/4.0 and verbal and 
  • quantitative GRE scores should each exceed the 50% rank. 
  • Field work in often adverse conditions (heat, insects, etc.) will involve installation of large experimental equipment (e.g. weirs), extensive soil sampling, and potentially operating heavy equipment. 
  • Lab work will involve conventional soil analyses and water chemistry. 
  • Past field experience is required, preferably involving forest soils and hydrology. 
  • Willingness and ability of the applicant to obtain a valid Texas driver's license is also required.

Miscellaneous: 

Nacogdoches, Texas has a population of ~30,000, a low cost-of-living, a historic downtown with shops & restaurants, and is a short drive from numerous National Forests and large reservoirs.

SFA is an Equal Opportunity Employer .

Salary: $25,000 per year

Benefits: Benefits include a stipend of $25,000 per year, a waiver of out-of-state tuition, and optional health care. However, in-state tuition does still apply.