*M.S. Environmental Science and Policy position at Northern Arizona University to study: “Understanding the socioecological effects of non-agricultural tree planting by landowners in rural Costa Rica”*
Applications are invited for a position in the Master’s of Environmental Science and Policy (ES&P) at Northern Arizona University (NAU) in the School of Earth and Sustainability (SES). This student will work on an ongoing project that examines the socioecological effects of non-agricultural tree planting by landowners in rural Costa Rica (Coto Brus canton). This interdisciplinary study is aimed at understanding: (1) whether tree planting/retention could provide resources for seed dispersers and seed sources for forest regeneration, (2) the social drivers behind the practice, and (3) benefits and barriers landowners may face (e.g., policy, economic). Student will be involved in fieldwork in Costa Rica, where they will gain a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between landowner practices and ecosystem functions. The student may choose to focus his/her thesis work on ecological or social science data, or to integrate both in an interdisciplinary thesis. Volunteers will be instrumental in data collection for this research effort, which is funded and supported by Earthwatch Institute. The student will therefore work with, train, and supervise several Earthwatch Institute volunteer teams throughout data collection. To read more about the project, visit: https://earthwatch.org/Expeditions/Toucans-Parrots-and-Other-Wildlife-in-Costa-Ricas-Forests Ideally the student will begin data collection in summer 2019, prior to the start of the Fall 2019 academic year, and will then collect additional data in summer 2020; the summer 2019 data collection period is negotiable. Required: - Conversational Spanish - Comfortable working with people with diverse backgrounds and skill levels - Ability to work in potential difficult environmental conditions (e.g., rain, mosquitos) Preferred qualifications: - Ecological data collection - Experience with bird identification - Leadership experience Interested applicants should send an email addressed to both Kerry Grimm ( kerry.gr...@nau.edu) AND Clare Aslan (clare.as...@nau.edu) by December 21, 2018. In addition to the preferred qualifications for these positions, potential candidates must meet the admission standards and be fully accepted into the ES&P MS program. Note that this research project is funded to support travel, lodging, and equipment. Student academic-year salary and tuition will be funded through a TA position. Travel and lodging ARE paid, but no summer salary is included. After talking with us, applicants must also submit: online application; transcripts; three letters of recommendation; and a statement of your interests in and goals for a M.S. program, and your reasons for pursuing an advanced degree. Application materials are due January 15, 2019 for Fall 2019 admission. You can access the application portal and view graduate school requirements here: http://nau.edu/GradCol/Admissions/Application/ Information M.S. Environmental Sciences and Policy and SES The Master of Science in Environmental Sciences and Policy degree program combines required interdisciplinary core courses with a breadth of specialized classes from across the University. The degree program is characterized by strong advising by accomplished faculty for individualized student programs of multidisciplinary study, as well as research and applied projects that often reach across campus and into the greater community. The diverse student population including international and minority students forms a strong peer cohort that provides support for study and extracurricular adventures. The two-year program's rigorous training in the natural and political sciences prepares graduates for successful environmental careers in industry, government, and the non-profit sector. Northern Arizona University’s School of Earth and Sustainability draws upon faculty and professionals in the natural and social sciences to combine outreach and educational programs addressing the diverse needs of stakeholders with undergraduate degrees in environmental sciences, environmental studies, and geology. For information please see, https://nau.edu/CEFNS/NatSci/SESES/Degrees-Programs/Graduate/MS-Environmental-Sciences-and-Policy/
