I am seeking a Ph.D. student to pursue interdisciplinary research in the field of geospatial sciences. The student will pursue a Ph.D. in Geospatial Science and Engineering, an interdisciplinary program at South Dakota State University, and will have the opportunity to develop independent research related to one of my ongoing projects. The Epidemic Prognosis Incorporating Disease and Environmental Monitoring for Integrated Assessment (EPIDEMIA) project is aimed at identifying environmental risk factors and developing predictive models for outbreaks of vector-borne and zoonotic diseases. Results are being applied to forecast and map human West Nile virus disease in the United States and epidemic malaria in the highlands of East Africa. The Coupled Human and Natural Geospatial Environments (CHANGE) project focuses on analysis and spatial simulation modeling of human land use, natural disturbance regimes, and landscape-scale vegetation dynamics. We are currently using satellite remote sensing and spatial simulation models to explore coupled human and natural landscape dynamics in the United States and West Africa.
Applicants should have a master's degree in ecology, geography, environmental science, or a closely related discipline along with a background in spatial epidemiology, landscape ecology, land change science, or other appropriate field. Familiarity with geographic information systems, remote sensing experience, computer programming skills and knowledge of the R environment are all highly desirable. A graduate research assistantship with stipend and reduced tuition is available starting in fall of 2015. To apply for this position, send the following information in electronic form to the address below: Curriculum vitae, 1-page statement of research interests, and copies of transcripts. Michael C. Wimberly michael.wimbe...@sdstate.edu Professor and Senior Scientist Geospatial Sciences Center of Excellence Wecota Hall 506B South Dakota State University Brookings, SD 57007-3510 (605) 688-5350
