Doctoral Research Assistantship in Sustainability Science Maines Sustainability Solutions Initiative (SSI) at the University of Maine offers unprecedented opportunities for graduate students to experience a truly interdisciplinary learning experience through a $20 million, 5-year program funded by the National Science Foundations EPSCoR program. The SSIs mission is to create an integrative research program and strong stakeholder partnerships to generate improved solutions to intersecting ecological, social, and economic challenges in and beyond Maine. For more information, visit www.umaine.edu/sustainabilitysolutions.
One SSI project is an interdisciplinary research program focused on the social and ecological aspects of tidal power development. We seek a Social Science doctoral research assistant interested in working on sustainability science research focused on understanding how to effectively link knowledge to action for the responsible development of tidal power. Some key research areas on this project are (1) stakeholder perceptions related to tidal energy development, (2) data collection on the potential social and economic impacts of tidal power development, and (3) the development of stakeholder and community engagement models to effectively link scientific and community knowledge for improved decision-making related to tidal power development. This research is ongoing and a student is needed immediately. Qualifications: A degree (preference given to individuals with an Masters) in anthropology, human ecology, sociology, geography, communication, or a related social science field; excellent GPA and GRE scores; strong communication and writing skills; and the ability to work collaboratively with a large and diverse group of researchers and stakeholders. Candidates should also have some experience collecting and analyzing social science data. Some background in a natural science is preferred, but not required. Support includes a fellowship of $20-25,000/year for three years, a tuition waiver, subsidy for health insurance, and funds for field research. Application Procedures: Please submit the following information to Teresa Johnson, Assistant Professor, University of Maine, teresa.john...@maine.edu with subject line SSI Tidal Power Research Assistantship. A letter detailing your interest in this position specifically and the goals of the SSI in general; A resume; Scanned GRE scores and transcripts; and Names, phone numbers, and email addresses of three references familiar with your academic and research history. Review of materials will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For more details on SSI, visit the project website at: http://www.umaine.edu/sustainabilitysolutions/ The University of Maine is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to maintaining an intellectually and culturally diverse faculty and staff. -------------------- Kim Raymond Communications and Outreach Coordinator SENATOR GEORGE J. MITCHELL CENTER for Environmental & Watershed Research University of Maine 5710 Norman Smith Hall Orono, Maine 04469-5710 ph: 207-581-3244 / fx: 207-581-3320 www.umaine.edu/WaterResearch www.pearl.maine.edu